I followed along today but didn't have the opportunity to engage as I did -- so, now,
a big hello to all of you once again!
A few general comments and observations, as I lack both the patience and energy to go back and quote reply:
The introduction of those never-before-seen texts
(knife/ask you to cut someone/like it, dark days + pay off) ... I'm sorry for the language, but I shouted a big "F&^% THESE GUYS!!!" in my head as these communications were shared. I am so revolted by their callous, boner-iffic talk over such horrific things. I never ONCE believed Smich to be a patsy or a tag along, and these were the direct indictments I needed to see to secure my thought. These two idiots deserve each other and everything they have coming to them, judicially and otherwise.
DM's apparent look toward MS while TD spun his my-client's-a-victim-of-circumstance story is rather telling to me.
Equitable division of labour in these schemes, no doubt.
I found it hilarious that their primary votes of reform came from inmates. Granted, this is the extent of your social circle in the last X years, but come on -- even these two would have to see how laughable that is. What, no words from AM, the BFF you paraded throughout trial?
I do feel for their mothers ... they are likely torn up trying to reconcile their own feelings. Much as the Babcocks and the Bosmas have suffered losses, so have these mothers; albeit in a very different way, but arguably no less tragic.
I can't blame MB or Smich's mother for throwing their sons a bone as a hail Mary ... but the bogus story about being thrown down the stairs while in utero? Domestic violence is no laughing matter, but GET A FRICKING GRIP, Dungey! My goodness, I am so thankful that Code called him right out on that nonsense.
RP showing up was like DM throwing in a pinch hitter. You played your 7 innings, and are now bringing out the ringer with big balls
(baseball metaphor, relax ), big words and flashy socks to try to clean up the mess you made of the game. And here he is swinging at whatever comes his way. He may be an impressive player, but you brought him out too late. Even he can't even the score now.
As has been mentioned, no reformation or redemption without remorse. I'd be quite satisfied to see these goons get consecutive sentences -- in a very cathartic way, giving these boys theirs releases the Babcocks from their own.
Up until now, I have always endeavored to speak about both convicted with some decorum while trying to maintain some tact. But ... I'm sorry. I just can't today.
I see zero chance of true, honest change in either of these men.
They will live out the remainder of their sad lives in reflection of the choices they made; but I feel it will be with a "glory days" mentality rather than one of remorse for anything other than getting caught.