If you caught the sentencing hearing for Casey Anthony bright-and-early this morning, it should have been obvious (as it was to moi!) that a defense lawyer for the accused attempted to pull a fast one on the Judge.
But, the old coot was sharp and wasn't fooled by the deceitful ploy!
For example, at the last-minute a wimpy female lawyer approached the podium to request that a "motion" - to consider misdemeanor counts 4, 5, 6, and 7 as one sole count - be granted by the Court.
The legal eagle argued that there was no "pause for reflection" when each statement was made to Police Officers - and thus - amounted to one continuing "lie" - and not - "four distinct separate falsehoods" as alleged by the prosecution.
In sum, counsel took the position that a failure to recognize the niggling point, may result in legal error on the grounds of "double-jeopardy".
The fact that the defense neglected to deliver the "motion" into the hands of the Judge prior to the sentencing hearing for a proper review was highly suspect (in my estimation).
In fact, at one point, the Judge interrupted the lawyer and cut to the chase.
"I don't have a copy of that motion."
The shrinking violets's response spoke volumes!
"I handed it to the clerk. I'm sorry, I forgot to ask that it be given to you."
Bullshit!
If 'ya ask me, it was an intentional maneuver on the part of the defense counsel to gain the upper hand.
Fortunately, the intelligent Judge took a moment to secure the documents in question, review the facts, and allegations, and applicable case law before he proceeded.
Nice try, counsel!
In the end, the Judge noted that like the rulings pertaining to Count 1, Count 2, and Count 3 - the Jury was also crystal clear - about their findings in respect to Count 4, 5, 6, and 7.
If you read between the lines, it is evident that the deceitful conduct of the defense lawyers backfired!
Notwithstanding, in view of the outrage that swept the country in the wake of the verdict yesterday, I just betcha the Judge's decision to give the maximum sentence for each count was - not only a way to appease the American people - but also pave the way for a "cooling off" period so folks could settle down emotionally.
By the way, Anthony was sentenced to 1 year in jail for each count (for a total of four years) and a $1,000.00 fine for each offense.
When credit for time served was applied, it was determined that Casey Anthony should be released on-or-about July 13th (if she survives in jail, that is).
Baby killers and rapists are often the victims of mysterious deaths while incarcerated, after all!
May God forgive you, Casey Anthony, for your heinous crimes.
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