Found Deceased CO - Shanann Watts (34), Celeste"Cece" (3) and Bella (4), Frederick, 13 Aug 2018 *Arrest* #43

[Colorado303]

Stomach contents has been mentioned a number of times in relation to the girls’ time of death. Unfortunately, it’s an inexact science and dependent on many things.

Knight’s Forensic Pathology:

The state of digestion, as opposed to the volume and exit of food from the stomach, is almost impossible to assess.

Variations in the type of food eaten make vast differences to the dissolution rate. Hard objects, such as nuts and seeds, resist digestion whereas soft carbohydrates can liquefy almost immediately. The size and dispersion of particles is crucial, including the amount of chewing and admixed saliva. The efficiency of the teeth and gastric acid are also of prime importance, as is the amount of liquid either in the original food or drunk during the meal. Fat and oil in the meal slow digestion and all these variables make it impossible to time the rate of digestion.

One of the most important factors in the forensic context is the effect of a physical or mental shock or stress during the digestion process as this can completely inhibit digestion. Even if one accepts an ‘average’ gastric transit time of an ‘average’ meal as being of the order of 2–3 hours, the assumption that death took place within this time can only be valid if the death was quite sudden and unexpected, with no stressful prior event.

A leading expert testified for the defence in the Pistorius trial. She said that underlying medical conditions, types of medication the person used , exercise and sleep routine can also delay gastric emptying.

Thank you! Do you know if they could tell if the only food in their stomach was what they had at the birthday party (so they never were fed dinner)?

 

[PommyMommy]

I thought her purse was by the door. I'll have to check that out. If her purse was in the kitchen, perhaps CW carried it there later looking for the phone?

From the arrest affidavit:
At Officer Coonrod's request, Det. Baumhover responded to the scene and arrived at approximately 2:35 PM. Upon arrival Det. Baumhover was briefed by Officer Coonrod and also learned Shanann's personal effects including her cell phone, purse, wallet, and medication were located in the house. Upon entering the residence Det. Baumhover observed Shanann's purse on a kitchen island and a suit case located at the bottom of the stairs leading to upstairs bedrooms. A pair of women's shoes were located near the front door.
https://www.courts.state.co.us/user...18CR2003/001/Warrantless Arrest Affidavit.pdf

 

[PommyMommy]

Were charges updated or changed recently - I thought I read there were some changes but can not find what his current charges are.

TIA

I would think Hipaa info could either confirm or repudiate her "health challenges".

Pregnancy etc.

His charges have not changed. They are:

COUNT 1: MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3-102(1)(a) (F1){01011}
COUNT 2: MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3-102(1)(a) (F1){01011}
COUNT 3: MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3-102(1)(a) (F1){01011}
COUNT 4: MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3-102(1)(f) (F1){01018}
COUNT 5: MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3-102(1)(f) (F1){01018}
COUNT 6: UNLAWFUL TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3.5-103(1),(2) (F2){01073}
COUNT 7: TAMPERING WITH A DECEASED HUMAN BODY, C.R.S. 18-8-610.5 (F3){26065}
COUNT 8: TAMPERING WITH A DECEASED HUMAN BODY, C.R.S. 18-8-610.5 (F3){26065}
COUNT 9: TAMPERING WITH A DECEASED HUMAN BODY, C.R.S. 18-8-610.5 (F3){26065}
https://www.courts.state.co.us/user.../2018CR2003/001/COMPLAINT AND INFORMATION.pdf
Found here: Colorado Judicial Branch

 

[JudgeJudi]

Thank you! Do you know if they could tell if the only food in their stomach was what they had at the birthday party (so they never were fed dinner)?

Everything is based on the last meal both as to content and time, and CW is in a position to state what that was. If he said they had XYZ for dinner, and if they found food in the stomach at autopsy that was different to what he said, they would know that he lied about dinner. The investigators would then ask the person they visited that afternoon what the girls ate.

My best guess would be that if there was anything in the stomach at all, it would probably prove that he murdered them because SW didn't arrive home until 2, at which point there would be nothing at all in the stomach.

 

[JudgeJudi]

They could try to make others believe that he was just nervous...
There are people out there who giggle or laugh at funerals and on similar occasions while they are in realty very very sad. Remembering my own mother if she had a mental breakdown . She would begin to laugh but later cry her heart out.

I've seen one or two people laugh at most inappropriate moments too. To me though, it's quite a different matter to act like that after disposing of 3 bodies and then lying about it.

 

[wildflower@]

His charges have not changed. They are:

COUNT 1: MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3-102(1)(a) (F1){01011}
COUNT 2: MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3-102(1)(a) (F1){01011}
COUNT 3: MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3-102(1)(a) (F1){01011}
COUNT 4: MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3-102(1)(f) (F1){01018}
COUNT 5: MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3-102(1)(f) (F1){01018}
COUNT 6: UNLAWFUL TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY IN THE FIRST DEGREE, C.R.S. 18-3.5-103(1),(2) (F2){01073}
COUNT 7: TAMPERING WITH A DECEASED HUMAN BODY, C.R.S. 18-8-610.5 (F3){26065}
COUNT 8: TAMPERING WITH A DECEASED HUMAN BODY, C.R.S. 18-8-610.5 (F3){26065}
COUNT 9: TAMPERING WITH A DECEASED HUMAN BODY, C.R.S. 18-8-610.5 (F3){26065}
https://www.courts.state.co.us/userfiles/file/Court_Probation/19th_Judicial_District/caseofinterest/2018CR2003/001/COMPLAINT AND INFORMATION.pdf
Found here: Colorado Judicial Branch

How do they come up with 5 of the exact same charges when there is a deceased adult, two children and an alleged pregnancy??

 

[PommyMommy]

How do they come up with 5 of the exact same charges when there is a deceased adult, two children and an alleged pregnancy??

3 Counts - Shanann, Bella, CeCe
2 Add'l Counts - Bella and CeCe – victim under 12/position of trust

From the complaint linked above:

COUNT 1-MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE (F1) On or about August 13, 2018, Christopher Lee Watts unlawfully, feloniously, after deliberation, and with the intent to cause the death of a person other than himself, caused the death of Shanann Watts; in violation of section 18-3-102(1)(a), C.R.S.

COUNT 2-MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE (F1) Between and including August 12, 2018 and August 13, 2018, Christopher Lee Watts unlawfully, feloniously, after deliberation, and with the intent to cause the death of a person other than himself, caused the death of ; in violation of section 18-3- 102(1)(a), C.R.S.

COUNT 3-MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE (F1) Between and including August 12, 2018 and August 13, 2018, Christopher Lee Watts unlawfully, feloniously, after deliberation, and with the intent to cause the death of a person other than himself, caused the death of ; in violation of section 18-3- 102(1)(a), C.R.S.

COUNT 4-MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE (F1) Between and including August 12, 2018 and August 13, 2018, Christopher Lee Watts unlawfully, feloniously, and knowingly caused the death of , a child who had not yet attained twelve years of age, and the defendant was in a position of trust with respect to the victim; in violation of section 18-3-102(1)(f), C.R.S.

COUNT 5-MURDER IN THE FIRST DEGREE (F1) Between and including August 12, 2018 and August 13, 2018, Christopher Lee Watts unlawfully, feloniously, and knowingly caused the death of , a child who had not yet attained twelve years of age, and the defendant was in a position of trust with respect to the victim; in violation of section 18-3-102(1)(f), C.R.S.

 

[gitana1]

Colorado was ages ago - so I can help with the caveat that things may have changed since then. I will try to check back later during the day when I get some time.

I doubt criminal procedure and law and motion have changed, as you said before. But I found the code so I think we are good to go.

 

[WildWest]

LOL thanks Colorado303, but I don't think it was you at all. I'm pretty sure it was me lol I did the same thing as well (trying to figure out a motive since the beginning). I have been on here for years reading about cases but had never posted until this case. My first post was my theory about him being gay, etc. When that plea came out recently, it was the first thing I thought about. I agree with everything you said. It wasn't ONLY about the man that alleges the affair; it was his AP, potential extensive promiscuity, and talking to my son and to nearly all of his gay friends at one time or another. They all struggled (and still do) with the fact they are gay and because of that mental struggle, they told me they had numerous "relationships" with women before coming out. So anyway, my theory is kind of out there and probably completely wrong but hey, it's a theory.

You are @Colorado303 are too cute Like the old chipmunks "Allow me" to open the door for you, "no, allow me" to get the door etc. I've seen his medical records mentioned by many posters here, and agree, regardless of sexual orientation HIV could be possible. Could someone link me to the ex parte request?

 

[maeleemae]

I see absolutly what you mean but consider it was already Monday "morning" when she arrived and she clearly wouldn't have much time to sleep in. Chris had to go to work early in the morning and she than would be alone at home with two small kids or at least had them to be ready for the daycare. But maybe he just ambushed her shortly after she arrived and she had absolutly no chance. She was pregnant, not feeling well and probably very very tired. So he would have had an easy game. I was always wondering how much struggle was going on in this house on that night. And like you I'm open to nearly everything except for his stupid story that she harmed any of their children.

That does make sense. On the occasion when I have an early flight to catch with a 90 minute drive to the airport I can’t sleep. What little sleep I get is counter productive because I feel worse than if I’d stayed up.

 

[MassGuy]

They could try to make others believe that he was just nervous...
There are people out there who giggle or laugh at funerals and on similar occasions while they are in realty very very sad. Remembering my own mother if she had a mental breakdown . She would begin to laugh but later cry her heart out.

I would never defend this man in any way (never ever after the way he got "rid" of the bodies but this has been discussed already a thousand times) but I think they could even use this point for making him look more innocent. If he have had to hide something why wouldn't he than have played the "griefing father" instead? Or something like this... I would NOT buy this since for me he appeared to be nervous but somehow relieved. For me his smiling could have been a sign that he was happy the person who interviewed him actually really believed him and his plan seemed to work. Like ilovewings mentioned before. But other people might have just another interpretation of his body language and general appearance while being interviewed.
And there are people out there who just want to believe what they want to believe. Because it fits better in the way they see the world.

I agree with you, in that I absolutely find his body language and mannerisms, very disturbing.

Because those things are quite subjective though, and each person is different, they can be thrown out the window.

There is something more important here:

What he is doing and trying to do, during those interviews.

That’s what I would focus on. The lies he told in order to mislead the media, and ultimately, the investigation.

There is nothing subjective in regards to the fact that he was lying. This is provable and not open to interpretation.

He dumped the bodies of his family like trash, and lied about it.

Repeatedly.

The way he communicated these lies (cool, calm, and collected), will certainly play to the emotions of the jury though.

 

[WildWest]

Typo, I meant you @Backstroke10 AND @Colorado303 are too cute. Sorry too late to edit.

You are @Colorado303 are too cute Like the old chipmunks "Allow me" to open the door for you, "no, allow me" to get the door etc. I've seen his medical records mentioned by many posters here, and agree, regardless of sexual orientation HIV could be possible. Could someone link me to the ex parte request?

 

[Mo Thuairim]

You are @Colorado303 are too cute Like the old chipmunks "Allow me" to open the door for you, "no, allow me" to get the door etc. I've seen his medical records mentioned by many posters here, and agree, regardless of sexual orientation HIV could be possible. Could someone link me to the ex parte request?

Defence motion and judge's response below, WW
https://www.courts.state.co.us/user...al_District/caseofinterest/2018CR2003/D40.pdf

https://www.courts.state.co.us/user...rict/caseofinterest/2018CR2003/Order C 21.pdf

 

[Backstroke10]

You are @Colorado303 are too cute Like the old chipmunks "Allow me" to open the door for you, "no, allow me" to get the door etc. I've seen his medical records mentioned by many posters here, and agree, regardless of sexual orientation HIV could be possible. Could someone link me to the ex parte request?

Typo, I meant you @Backstroke10 AND @Colorado303 are too cute. Sorry too late to edit.

WildWest your so funny! Lol!!

 

[Amandaaa]

I doubt criminal procedure and law and motion have changed, as you said before. But I found the code so I think we are good to go.

Glad you found it.

There have probably not been too many changes, but there have likely been at least a few - so I’m always going to include that disclaimer, just to be safe.

In the future, I’m happy to help as time allows - I have an especially complicated trial starting Monday, so this week is tough.

 

[MyBelle]

Were they in marriage counseling ? Or is it just a possible plausible?

It's a possible plausible based on SW wanting to save the marriage and children were involved. I think that scenario is far more plausible then CW being HIV positive. JMO

 

[DexterMorgan]

It's a possible plausible based on SW wanting to save the marriage and children were involved. I think that scenario is far more plausible then CW being HIV positive. JMO

That could definitely make sense. I like this possible, plausible for now. Good job.

 

[Thepoet]

From the arrest affidavit:
At Officer Coonrod's request, Det. Baumhover responded to the scene and arrived at approximately 2:35 PM. Upon arrival Det. Baumhover was briefed by Officer Coonrod and also learned Shanann's personal effects including her cell phone, purse, wallet, and medication were located in the house. Upon entering the residence Det. Baumhover observed Shanann's purse on a kitchen island and a suit case located at the bottom of the stairs leading to upstairs bedrooms. A pair of women's shoes were located near the front door.
https://www.courts.state.co.us/userfiles/file/Court_Probation/19th_Judicial_District/caseofinterest/2018CR2003/001/Warrantless Arrest Affidavit.pdf

Thank you so much! Now I have to rethink things. LOL! I still believe the girls were first and CW ambushed SW, but I need to analyse where things were found. I did read the report when it came out, but there's been so much! Thanks again, you're the best!

 

[Thepoet]

It's a possible plausible based on SW wanting to save the marriage and children were involved. I think that scenario is far more plausible then CW being HIV positive. JMO

There is zero evidence that CW and/or SW were in counseling or had even talked to a counselor. Our legal expert Gitana1 has stated that it is about him and most likely has to do with psychological issues and experts. Her opinion is somewhere earlier in this thread.

 

[PommyMommy]

Thank you so much! Now I have to rethink things. LOL! I still believe the girls were first and CW ambushed SW, but I need to analyse where things were found. I did read the report when it came out, but there's been so much! Thanks again, you're the best!

You're welcome. This is what I have, if it helps. I'm still not certain where her keys were found.

FIRST FLOOR

1. Shoes at the front door
2. Door latch in place on front door
3. Suitcase at bottom of the stairs
4. Purse on the kitchen island
5. Pillowcases and top sheet in kitchen trash can
6. Car in the garage with car seats in place
7. Outside garage keypad not working
8. All doors and windows were locked
9. Wallet and medications were in the home (exact location unknown)
10. Keys were in the car 'I hope it's a boy for him': Pregnant wife, weeks before husband allegedly killed her
11. Keys were in the house Chris Watts' slain family: Wife suspected infidelity
12. Family video shows an Amazon Alexa on the kitchen counter Crime & Justice on Twitter

1-9 are from the affidavit.
https://www.courts.state.co.us/user...18CR2003/001/Warrantless Arrest Affidavit.pdf

SECOND FLOOR

1. SW’s phone was found in the loft between two sofa cushions
2. There is/was a baby monitor on SW’s nightstand
3. The bed in the master bedroom was stripped and bedding on the floor
4. The girls’ baby blankets were missing
5. The girls’ beds weren’t made, per NUA Video: Friend of woman allegedly killed by husband on why something 'didn't seem right'

1-3 are from the affidavit.
https://www.courts.state.co.us/user...18CR2003/001/Warrantless Arrest Affidavit.pdf

There may be more things to be added since these lists were made. MOO