Casey/Caylee Anthony Murder Trial: Closing Arguments Bring New Confessions By Jose Baez And New Smirks By Jeff Ashton
Assistant State’s Attorney Jeff Ashton began the closing arguments with such scalpular precision my mind wandered briefly where I actually pictured him scrubbing in, just before entering court. In approximately 77 minutes, with 2 overruled objection by Jose Baez, Ashton tied up the one thing he is NOT required to present to the jury, Casey’s motive for murdering her toddler, setting the tone for his closing that presented more like an excerpt from a Grisham flick. I say let him play himself.
“..It’s easy to be a parent, sometimes.. It’s easy to be a parent, when your playing with your child, or when your enjoying your child, children are fun… But we all know that being a parent is much more than just playing with your children.. Being a parent is about sacrifice.. Your child becomes your life. This case is about the clash between that responsibility and the expectations that go with it, and the life that Casey Anthony wanted to have… “
Ashton went through the time line of 31 days including details from the elaborate lies Casey Anthony told to avoid detection from her Mother Cindy, her imaginary friend finder chip located in the unallocated sectors of her mind where her conscious should have been, and the fact there is only one reason to duct tape a small child: MURDER. Ashton reminded jurors that the defense theory is asking them to head down rabbitholes that defy reasonable thought. It makes one wonder if that was not exactly the source of inspiration behind Jose Baez Dr. Huntington pigs sans blankets experiment.
Cheshire Cat: By-the-bye, what became of the baby? I’d nearly forgotten to ask.
Alice: It turned into a pig.
The Cat: I thought it would.
Jose was spotted given jurors a parting gift over lunch, which was intercepted by deputies.
Doom and Gloom Loom for Camp Casey
On what is likely to be her day of reckoning, Ms. Anthony was less than thrilled to learn that 2 of the bullseye on her defense’s dart board were permanently removed, I reckon. George and Lee Anthony, the crux of the defense’s failed attempts to blame Casey Anthony’s selective post traumatic stress disorder, will not be allowed to be maligned further based on her allegations of sexual abuse.
As expected, Jose Baez began his closing arguments reminding jurors the defense is not required to “defend” at all. In short, his comments were structured around the trash being altered because it was allowed to dry, and that the state allowed jurors to pass around the velveeta pouch so they could help figure out “Who cut the cheese.” You read that correctly, he actually said that.
He also went on to express his concerns that the State painted his client as a slut, and by doing so, invoking their emotions which will be used to find her guilty, as opposed to actual evidence.
In what I will call flub #3 in less than 40 minutes, Jose Baez inadvertently tells jurors that Casey Anthony’s trunk for the usage ot transportation is not murder. HEH? I thought the defense was quite adamant the junk in the trunk is what stunk. I guess that’s now bunk, whoda’ thunk?
Jose Baez is currently continuing his contribution to the defense’s, and Cheney Mason is on as anchor to complete the allotted 4 hours.
Linda Drane Burdick has had 3 sustained objections and granted one move to strike already. I lost that bet dangit.
Flub #4 flies in, while I am editing. This lawyer just actually admitted Casey searched for chloroform based on Ricardo Morales’s image on his computer. OMG.
..” It should be natural for her to want to know what chloroform was if her boyfriend had the image on his myspace…” Jose Baez
Assistant State Attorney Linda Drane Burdick will complete the State’s rebuttal closing argument.
On an unrelated note, the jury has selected their preference for the order of question during the press conference scheduled following a verdict. It is as follows:
1. CNN 2. WFTV 3. St. Pete Times 4. Reuters 5. People 6. HLN 7. WDBO 8. NBC 9. MSNBC 10.WTSP 11.FOX 12.Orlando Magazine 13.Florida Sun 14.WKMG 15.Dateline 16.WTMY 17.Chathouse 18.CFN 13 19.WOFL 20.Tampa Tribune 21.In Session 22.Orlando Sentinel 23.Univision 24.AP 25.Discovery 26.ABC 27.EFE 28.CBS 29.WESH
If that is not a window to this jury, I don’t know what is.
To Be Continued, Active Blogroll on this thread through today’s session. On the day that Governor Scott signed his first death warrant for Manuel Valle, convicted of killing a Coral Gables police officer a few counties away, I would not hold out any hope that Ann Finnell’s motion for mistrial based on Federal Court’s ruling striking the death penalty in Florida, will be granted. Report Filed 3PM EST
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Yes Mom3- the shoes. IMO, she had no shoes b/c she had been asleep when whisked away forever. Who sleeps in shoes?
You know how well Jeff does by the facial expressions of Casey & Baez.
JA was fabulous- I liked his explanation of RK and George- and loved his methodical walkthru of the scene off suburban and what the evidence tells them-
Did a excellent job of simplifying/summarizing the forensic evidence.
AJMO
He was flawless. Casey knows it.
B
Happy Independence Day to all.
Does anyone else feel that Casey isn’t doing herself any favors with her cold stares and utterances toward the jury box? I realize it is directed at JA, but….If I was the type of juror that had difficulty believing in the bad side of people, that could tip the scales for me. As the furrow deepens above her unflinching gaze, I can’t help but think she’s not even trying to appear “relatable.”
Kudos to JA, can’t wait for Linda up next!
Fortunately, in my motel til 11am, I got to see exemplary Ashton & can’t wait for Burdick. I was worried in a TV juror profile late last nite 3 jurors seemed by their own statements unlikely to have abstract thinking & inference, a couple idiosyncratic types. I dont see how they can gum up with Ashton’s close. Thankfully Baez opened all the doors.
Missed rebuttal. Any links with replays appreciated!
In progress, second half about to start, can be seen live here, and video link will be posted of this morning.
http://www.wftv.com/index.html
Was the nursing Home video ever introduced as evidence? Just wondering if that needed to be in place for it to be used here.
I believe so, in the opening from the state.
Anyone offering a guess on the time it will take for verdict?
B
She will not walk. She cannot escape her guilt or Caylee’s death that is being put forth by the brilliant beyond brilliant Jeff Ashton. He speaks with such great clarity ensuring the jury’s understanding.
I really felt he was in a sense, deliberating with the jury.
His explanation of the 2 ways to get to a 1st degree murder decision and the criteria check-list which he went through step by step as being met by the State’s case, the evidence and the witnesses, was undeniably on point and logical – - leaving no reasonable doubt, IMO.
Next up, the brilliant beyond brilliant Linda Drane Burdick.
I expect even more reactions from the accused.
I had a debate with my Uncle yesterday- re manslaughter, which he thinks is the appropriate remedy. But, here JA covered, that manslaughter can be found with the commission of aggr. manslaughter is FIRST Degree. I hope he is watching.
From the juror profile I saw last nite (their own quotes), I think it will take a few days to assuage a couple jurors’ guiltly feelings that they actually vote for guilt.
Oh Baez- give it up- go sit down. False testimony? Baez doesn’t understand the evidence as it is in convenient.
Eloise says:
July 4, 2011 at 9:19 am
Was the nursing Home video ever introduced as evidence? Just wondering if that needed to be in place for it to be used here.
I believe so, in the opening from the state.
Anyone offering a guess on the time it will take for verdict?
B
*************
Well this brings up a question I have-
I was told that while I was away from the TV- upon verdict the jury must await 48hrs? is that accurate.
I say they will know today- whether it is announced today- I doubt. I say Wednesday.
Sammy & pale rider ~
IMO jb saying [paraphrase] “GA is no parent … GA did NOT fall on his sword for ICA …”
IMO shows me just where jb & ICA place him — “NOT a team player … because GA was NOT willing to lie, manufacture &/or destroy evidence nor even commit a successful suicide … ”
IMO it was a horrific series of “statements by jb” …
Further IMO jb gave a veiled threat to GA that IF ICA gets any sentence GA is responsible because he had NOT done whatever ICA need to be free …
AJMHO
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
@Sammy says:
July 3, 2011 at 7:45 pm
@pale rider says: @ July 3, 2011 at 5:58 pm
FTLOG — would the DT SHUT & SIT DOWN ???
They had their chance!!!
Those objections will NOT S L O W down the STATE.
IMO the jury will be be angry @ DT for the disruption …
Lovin’ some Linda.
Girlcrush ON!
B
Is is just me?? It seems like the state is not taking the opportunity to poke holes (huge holes) in the defense’s opening statement explanation of the “accidental drowning” and “molestation.”
I think the defense would have been better off to just sit back, let the state accuse, and then respond “prove it.” Rather than to lay out it’s own explanation and never back it up.
Why is this never addressed? Why does the state not mention this fabrication in closing???
Seems like a giant missed opportunity. But maybe I don’t understand trial well enough.
I believe so, in the opening from the state.
Anyone offering a guess on the time it will take for verdict?
B
By dinner time!
From WESH via Twitter
” #CaseyAnthony is holding hands under the table with her lawyer, #DorothySims. ”
by stevehelling via twitter at 10:26 AM
Blink,
I believe the jury will deliberate into their second day and expect a verdict on the third, possibly in the morning.
At this moment, I hold the Prosecuting attorneys in thought. They have carefully anticipated any rebuttal and have occupied this gruesome space for three long years. I have no doubt that Linda Burdick will give the jury a passionate story to remember.
The defense will hopefully offer give the jury a few nuggets to toss around and discard, before they get to the truth of their decision of murder in the first degree.
I KNEW Blink would call a girl crush on LBD! Took long ’nuff, B.
Today is the first time I’ve seen Casey look genuinely defeated, not to mention ego deflation in the tone of Baez’s objections.
I believe reality is setting in for the dynamic duo.
Uhh…watching LDB now. Never mind.
Blinkers–
Happy Meat Holiday, everyone!
Happy half-birthday, also, to my Daughter, light and inspiration of my life–if only Caylee could dream this dream.
Lol
B
As Linda plays the audio tapes, I can’t help but think: give her enough rope and she’ll hang herself. Holy guacamole, this might be more damning than forensics, yes?
Yes. This may go faster than I thought.
B
~snip~
hk says:
July 4, 2011 at 9:47 am
Is is just me?? It seems like the state is not taking the opportunity to poke holes (huge holes) in the defense’s opening statement explanation of the “accidental drowning” and “molestation.”
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
The DT had no proof of molestation. What Baez said is not evidence in the OS. They were told they were not allowed to bring that up as they presented no evidence wrt to this. The State would be penalized if they in turn made mention to it. They did addresses the idiocy of the drowning, as no one would make an accident into a murder scene.
Oh, my God, talk about saving the best for last, state’s rebuttal was simply outstanding, a “slam dunk.” Thank you, State!
i think we might have a verdict tonight. or at the latest by early tomorrow afternoon
I am crying still. Brillant.
Linda Drane-Burdick NAILED IT!!!!!! You couldn’t have asked for a better rebuttal statement. Ashton did great as well but Linda hit the grand slam that brought the all in!!!!!!
My husband, who was a prosecutor for 24 years, after listening to LDB’s closing argument, said:
“That was the best closing I have ever heard.”
Well done, Ms. Burdick!! Well done, indeed!
Outstanding. The woman is a secret weapon in a suit. What a wonderful compliment.
Thank you for sharing, and thank Mr. Prosecutor for his years of service!
B
I cried I cried and cried some more- This case is one that should based on common sense- LDB was SUPERB-
The playhouse- the lies- the imaginary friends- the fact that George and Cindy built the playhous and gave her a monogramed mailbox and didnt want her wet and cold and bug infested- yet in death She had none of these comforts-
the amazing mother-Casey Anthony- NOT in contrast to the grieving mother- the one who protected their child in death- the jail tapes -the phone call -the interview- Caseys own indifference except when in living her own bella vita- who was better off? whose life was good with out Caylee?
The only answer is Casey
RIP little Caylee- no matter the verdict the truth has been told- you are no longer silenced- your story has been told-
You have gained your independence from your mothers selfish deeds-
You are free from her wrath and her lies- RIP
AJMO
Here here. So your keeping your name?
B
WPG~
Thank You for your link.
I will be reading case while jury is considering guilty or not …
Another thing that is bothering me. Why did JB say that George should take the fall for Casey?? I couldn’t believe what I heard. He basically said that Cindy lied for Casey and George should too.
I have goose bumps all over that I cannot shake. Lord be with our jurors.
Linda did a superb job, even despite the objections attempted by Baez.
I wonder if we will get any updates on what the jury looked like during this rebuttal. ( haven’t checked any tweets)
Linda had a no-hitter, shut-out in my opinion and Casey defeated herself. Linda- great job. I also have a girl-crush.
My prediction FWIW is 7 hours.
My dear Caylee in heaven, I hope you know somehow how many millions of people care about you and want justice for you. You are loved so much. I am so sorry your life was cut short. You will forever live in my heart. I am fortunate to have 2 wonderful sons, but you are the daughter I always wanted. May God bless you and keep you.
“Anyone offering a guess on the time it will take for verdict?
B”
48 hours.
I am in that ballpark as well.
Guys- I am dissappointed. Not one of you recognized Linda’s reference to the fumblerooski?
lol.
B
During LDB’s brilliant closing, I noticed ICA getting more and more angry. It was comical. I was expecting her to stand up and stomp her foot because it wasn’t going her way. I’m so emotional that it’s finally over. Waiting is going to be hard for my patience.
i bow down to LDB, i can’t say much more than Excellent! i have goosebumps and tears as we enter the end…common sense jury, use your common sense – bless them for what they are about to do – yes whose life was better?…
nana2~
oh ick …
@ WFTV -”lip reader’s are saying during LDB’s close, that ICA said “No I never blamed my mom … it WAS his fault… swear wods …”
Did anyone else catch anything else on WFTV – interrupted by others, did not hear the whole comment ?
AJMO
===================================
@nana2 says:
July 4, 2011 at 9:53 am
From WESH via Twitter
” #CaseyAnthony is holding hands under the table with her lawyer, #DorothySims. ”
by stevehelling via twitter at 10:26 AM
To all of you questioning the absence of quantitative analysis, this was addressed by the expert testimony. There was not a way to have an accurate measure of products that dissipate. This was testified to and also explained that since chloroform level so high that it only means that the actual level was much higher originally.
At least that is what I remember.
Now we wait.
get that article ready Blink, we are craving it – you promised us!!
O you are gonna have to hold out, lol, I have not seen my family in days.
B
Blink~
How are the “final 12 picked?”
Is it a lottery ?
TIA
They were chosen in order, the first 12 that were picked will deliberate
B
Adelio says:
July 4, 2011 at 10:34 am
Another thing that is bothering me. Why did JB say that George should take the fall for Casey?? I couldn’t believe what I heard. He basically said that Cindy lied for Casey and George should too
**************
Exactly! The DT is punishing him for not going along with the ‘plan’ as Cindy attempted to do. I hope the jury caught that. I couldn’t believe he sad that, right? lol
I also had the image of Baez and his argument yesterday coming from one and only one perspective. That of a want to be lover, suitor, someone emotionally charged with the defense of this person. I wanted to shout it out yesterday, unbelievable.
Yes Blink, I decided I will keep my name in honor of Caylee, and in remembrance of the truth and in support of the prosecution.
Praying hard for the jurors to use their common sense.
Mom3.0
Atta Girl. I am glad to hear it.
B
I heard that the Jury didnt respond to Jeff Ashtons good morning – it was met with silence -is that true? I heard a loud good morning response from them to Baez – just wondering.
I think it was quiet, but I think the jury was nervous going into today, and he wished them a Happy 4th Of July
B
Guys- I am dissappointed. Not one of you recognized Linda’s reference to the fumblerooski?
lol.
B
——–
Definately got it. I do not know you but I did have a feeling that there is some connection between you and LDB. She is totally awesome, and IMO the use of lavender paper is soooo touching. Gives real insight into what motivates her.
Ms Drane-Burdick sure brought it all home today.
She’s simply brilliant.
So powerful, yet reminds jury to see the forest for the trees, and use common sense after that atrocious trip down the rabbit hole that the defense has tried to take everyone.
Pure and simple underneath the pile of manure that this defense team has tried to cover-up Justice For Caylee with.
I say prayers for this jury.
Blink …
Thank You … for straightening me out on ? about anyone riding in Casey’s car after Caylee was killed.
Maria Kisch confusion of the the date in her testimony … that’s where things were mixed up.
No one was in that car – except Casey.
Merci beaucoup mon ami.
Verdict NLT Tues, maybe tomorrow.
Kudos Mom 3.0!!!! LDB, “Those weren’t imaginary friends, they were LIES!!!!!” (PP)
In answer to the length of time before verdict – before Lady Linda spoke so powerfully and eloquently I said we would have a verdict Thursday. I may revise it now and say Wednesday but I do believe the jury will be most thorough so they can rest well in their decision
@ Riverpearl, yep to JB enraged @ GA for not being a team player. It speaks to JB’s fantastic ego that he would blame GA for Caylee’s death/coverup and ICA’s sexual molestation then expect him to play nice and perjure himself for that monster!
Happy fourth of July to everyone. I will be playing a gig this afternoon with our community band celebrating the holiday.
I think that Linda Burdick put the final nail in the coffin for Casey with the use of the telephone call from jail to try and get Tony’s telephone number. Casey was so angry that she was talking to herself until Ms. Simms spoke to her. I thought that if LBD would stay on that topic a few more minutes, we might see an explosion from Casey.
The jury will have a ton of information to sort through and to try and classify the various charges against Casey. Depending on how long they work each day in deliberations, I am looking at a verdict late Wenesday.
Mom3.0 is going to keep her name! Yes, and she should IMO
Blink, when this is over your virtual poppa is ordering at least eight hours of uninterrupted sleep. You cannot continue with just four hours at a time.
Re: Maria K in KC’s car: the only documented time that Maria K was in KC’s car was on June 4 when Tony & KC & Maria & Clint (Tony’s roommate) went to someone’s birthday party (re clickorlando timeline).
Wasn’t LDB amazing?