Rhett August's mother, due to work has only attended the trial once before, at a later stage when the Arcata case was being discussed. Today for the first time, Ms. August saw the photo with the blood drops on the kitchen floor and Rhett lying in the ER and as I glanced over, I saw her silent and subtle reaction.
Ms. Schwarz has been there for most of the trial. Mrs. Marcet was able to attend a couple of days in the last two weeks.
There is real danger and fear of retaliation that has been testified by witnesses. I have my own personal experience which I rather not get into on the blog but has been witnessed by baliffs and other members of the media and people attending the trial.
I am not related to any of the victims but the defense's overzealousness and insensitivity is deplorable to me. Ms. Firpo has shown sensitivity when she shows photos and with testimony.
Statements from the defense such as Mr. Russo telling the jury that giving closure to the families or finding Tree guilty would only provide the community with a "momentary sense of justice" were out of line.
We need to remember one young man almost lost his life, two people were killed that did nothing to whoever shot them. Sometimes the defense forgets that there are victims in this case whose mothers sit in that courtroom.
A good defense does not mean one has to be a jerk. I have seen defense attorneys with a lot of experience, some that are newer. It has nothing to do with how long you have been an attorney. Some just are more secure and know how to defend their client without making it personal. Is winning more important or justice?
I agree that it is not "a case" to the Moms. My heart goes out to them. And to their families.
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