I see a lot of differences between this and the CA trial. Tons. But, to your point, I do believe the juror questions have helped us to see the jury. Whether we think the questions have been pro prosecution or pro defense, they have all been thoughtful and show careful consideration of testimony and evidence. Having worked as jury coordinator on death penalty cases, that, to me, is the sign of an excellent jury. In fact, that's all I could ask for in this case. Give me a jury that will carefully deliberate, pay attention to even the minute evidence, and seriously consider all options. I am never afraid of a jury that will consider all evidence. I am scared to death of one that will only consider one side.
And, just to add, my experience is that even on a death penalty qualified jury, it is very very sobering for a jury to know that their decision could end someone's life. It is one thing to be part of the crowd on WS calling for the death penalty. But, it is entirely different to be one of the 12 who makes it happen, knowing if you held out, the person wouldn't die. For a person of conscience, that is VERY difficult no matter what you believe about guilt and the death penalty. This jury will have to be very courageous to do what the evidence demands from them, no matter how tough it is.
Personally, on facebook, I saw a post from Travis' sister asking us to pray and fast for the jury on Sunday, before the case will likely be presented to them. I will be joining her for the jury's wisdom, courage, and strength in a very difficult case - even with so much overwhelming evidence. Your average person with conscience would have a very difficult time in deliberations, no matter how obvious the evidence seems. It is just such a sad, heartbreaking case with no true winners. Only justice.
This is not to say that I don't think the jury will do what they have to do. I believe this jury is the kind (from the questions) of jury that is needed for this case. Just from my own experience working with jurors, my heart goes out to them. I know they do not take this lightly. And, I know how heartwrenching it will be for them if they ultimately do have to render a DP verdict. (Writing that, I want to note, I absolutely believe in JA's tremendous guilt. I am only speaking to how tough it is to be part of a death penalty jury where the evidence will likely require very substantial consideration of the death penalty - not easy for any one of the 12).
I believe that Travis has the best prosecutor and the type of jury that justice demands. Praying for justice and praying for those who have to render it.
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