Do they weigh more heavily the wishes of the public or the wishes of the victim's family when considering whether to ask for the DP?
Do they weigh more heavily the wishes of the public or the wishes of the victim's family when considering whether to ask for the DP?
In a murder case, the prosecution usually talks with the victim's family as to their wishes. But in this case, it's difficult because the victim's family includes the murderer.
I think the prosecution is going to have to decide on the basis of the heinousness of the crime and the evidence they have for a conviction.
First there will be a trial to determine guilt. Then the sentencing phase which usually follows conviction by a month or two. During the sentencing phase, there will be victim's impact statements. In this case, the victim impact statements are going to be one sided. It might be difficult to get a jury to go for the death penalty, as all the defense needs is one juror to vote against it.
I'm not familiar with Florida law. Can the prosecution go for the death penalty with an option for LWOP?
As much as I would love this to be a dp case. I don't think the prosecutors will go that route because jurors would have difficulty sentencing a young, pretty woman to death. Also in dp cases the family of the victim is allowed to "weigh in" and their feelings are given consideration... in this case the victims family is also the defendants family.
Im not a fan of the As but their granddaughter was murdered, and for CMA to be executed, that would just about finish them off. Dont want that. If theyve done anything illegal in this case such as obstruction, LE will handle it. But I wouldnt mind seeing the DP on the table to make CMA sweat bullets, then let the jury give her LWOP. Or maybe the DP will force her hand and shell take a plea for LWOP. Besides, it costs taxpayers more to have her on death row with all of the appeals shes entitled to, and who wants to spend more money on her waste, huge waste. I used to be very pro capital punishment but must be getting soft (& more practical) as I get older, lol.
I'm anti-DP myself. But in regard to the parents, I'm sure it is just as tough on every parent so I don't care all that much about their special needs.
I think she deserves the death penalty. I wouldn't mind seeing her get the needle. However, if she gets life without parole, I wouldn't mind that either, because I know she's craving freedom and she can't stand being locked up. I hope she doesn't plead down, that's what I hope doesn't happen.