05-10-2013, 12:12 AM
^ Absolutely maddening.
Just seeing "her rights" throughout the motion gets me pissed off.
I know that a lot of law professors and academics argue that victim impact statements are too emotional and prejudicial and don't belong in a courtroom. If they took place before the verdict was reached, I'd agree. They shouldn't be considered evidence.
BUT, since they don't occur until after the verdict has been reached and the impacts to the loved ones living with the loss should, imo, be a factor in determining the penalty, I too think it's utter bullshit to deny the victims the opportunity to look the criminal and the jury (or judge) in the eyes during sentencing.
In this case especially; Jodi Arias got to spew to the jury all the filthy lies she could conjure up about the innocent man whom she butchered, with his family and the nation watching. Fuck her.
Just seeing "her rights" throughout the motion gets me pissed off.
I know that a lot of law professors and academics argue that victim impact statements are too emotional and prejudicial and don't belong in a courtroom. If they took place before the verdict was reached, I'd agree. They shouldn't be considered evidence.
BUT, since they don't occur until after the verdict has been reached and the impacts to the loved ones living with the loss should, imo, be a factor in determining the penalty, I too think it's utter bullshit to deny the victims the opportunity to look the criminal and the jury (or judge) in the eyes during sentencing.
In this case especially; Jodi Arias got to spew to the jury all the filthy lies she could conjure up about the innocent man whom she butchered, with his family and the nation watching. Fuck her.