Updates On Stanley Case-2008

[SeriouslySearching]

This case isn't over yet! Do we have any new updates on where the case stands right now? :confused:

[SydneyMum]

This is from the 7th Feb

http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080202/NEWS01/802020302

[SydneyMum]

Another article
http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080207/UPDATES/80207024/1008/NEWS01

[HAWG]

If they set bail for him I will just die!!! Her goes my fear agian. I hope that there is enough evidence to hold him with out bail. Today will tell a little bit about the evidence that they have against him. Just because they set a bail dosent mean he can come up with the money to get out. Im keeping my fingers crossed and praying alot today!!! PLease help me pray?

[Taximom]

Yes, HAWG, I'll be praying with you. I can't get over this case, AND the severe lack of news about it. These girls should not be forgotten.

I hope the little baby is doing well. Thanks for the updates, Sydneymum, and welcome to WS! :blowkiss:

[SeriouslySearching]

Welcome to WS and Thank you, Sydneymum!!

I don't want this case to go away. I want the truth to come out of what really happened and for things to move forward for their family. That precious little girl needs to have answers in the future.

[Littledeer]

HAWG:

I am praying with you hon! We just need to keep on having faith in God and in all that he does. Even when it doesn't make any sense, which I am finding out more and more as I read here on Web Sleuths.

Since the trial is to start in March, I just can't see the Judge granting bail. imo, there is no need to.

I see the same crap is starting all over again over at the Pandiam(?) news site on whether Erin and Kelly's parents acted appropriately along with a lengthly discussion over one of the firemen.

Although I have my thoughts on how I feel the parents should have acted, it's just that...........my thoughts. I have to realize that we are all different and don't all act in the same way to the same circumstances.

Although I haven't posted here, it does not mean I have forgotten Erin, Kelly, you, your precious grandaughter, your daugher. I haven't, just been waiting patiently for the trial to start.

[Wrinkles]

Hello Gang,

It is good to see that something is coming up finally and hopefully the truth will be clarified and justice will prevail. I, too, cannot forget these two lovely girls.

Hawg, hang in there. I'll be praying about the situation, as well. I can imagine the fear you might have of James getting out on bail. Hopefully that will NOT happen.

Taximom, Seriously Searching, and Littledeer good to see your faces :)

SydneyMum, thanks for posting those links! I'll be hoping that you and others can pick these up and post them, as I have little time to be hunting lately :( So I really appreciate when others do.

Wrinkles

[SeriouslySearching]

(Waves at Wrinkles!) Great to see ya! Welcome back!

[SydneyMum]

Thanks for the welcome :)
I've been a long time lurker and decided to sign up the other day.

I've found a bit more news.....
He's being held without bond!
Murder hearing set for March 11.
http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080209/NEWS01/802090301
http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080208/NEWS01/802080312/1008

[HAWG]

I dont like what I have heard so far I hope this dont turn out to be a circus show. I would love to see the evidence because I dont think that they have handled this properly. This is scaring me to death!!!

[Bobbisangel]

From what has been said...Erin was without oxygen for quite a while. I would like to know if the blood vessels in her eyes broke. That is usually a sign of being strangled or suffocated. I just find it hard to believe that nothing was going on between Erin and the baby's daddy..like a fight or something...and all of a sudden she couldn't get any air and died with him right there in the room. No doubt the same bed. They had been fighting...the neighbors had witnessed it. They had just moved back in with Erin's parents and Kelly so the fight had to have been at Erin's home. Dad didn't care for the boyfriend for some reason. I think the boyfriend had a lot of nerve moving in with them probably knowing that the dad didn't approve of him.

I realize that we don't know all of the facts but if I were on his jury I would vote "guilty" but because of the fact that we know so far!

Kelly died of a seizure? Sounds just like ole Joran Van Der Sloot.

[FormerRichmondRes]

http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080214/UPDATES/80214016/1008/NEWS01

This article was updated this morning, I believe.

[HAWG]

My heart goes out to the Stanleys today. That would have to be very hard for them. I hope this is not drug out too long for them!!!

JUSTICE FOR ERIN !!!

[SewingDeb]

There's an article at Pal-item about her mother testifying but when I click on the link it is a blank page.

[Taximom]

Try this link, SewingDeb:
http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080215/UPDATES/80215026

[HAWG]

There is another article that states Lonny and Kelly went to get them in Ohio. It was said that they didnt want James to come but Erin did so they allowed it. She also said she wasent aware of any abuse and that she only knew of one fight that they had. She was sobing on the stand poor woman this has to be very hard.
Im wonering what bumblebug is talking about???

[Littledeer]

Winkles: Great seeing you again! :blowkiss:

Welcome to WS SydneyMum!! :)

HAWG: I truly believe there will be no bail granted to James! We will be with you every step of the way! Keep the faith!!! How's that beautiful grandaughter doing? Can you put up a picture of the little darling?

[HAWG]

Ld, I dont think that there will be a bond either. Thank you for your support!!! As for Haley she is doing fine she is really growing she comes up with something new everyday. She has the biggest imagination it is so funny to watch her play. I say she is going to be a movie star because of her imagination! LOL Sorry about the picture but you can go to Ashley Messer myspace and then you can see her.

[SewingDeb]

Try this link, SewingDeb:
http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080215/UPDATES/80215026

Thanks Taximom. Just now getting back to this one.

[the bumblebug]

Bumblebug is back.

During the first session of the bond hearing the lead investigaztor testigied the following:

[the bumblebug]

During the first session of the hearing the lead investigator testified to the following.
1. James was interviewed for more than an hour in Richmond and it was taped.
2. The investigator asked another officer to conduct a detailed interview on the Stanleys. They were separated and each asked approximately 7 questions.
3. Even after the investigator was advised that Erin had probably been strangled, he did not ask for a sexual assault kit to be run nor did he ask that scrapings be taken from underneath Erin's fingernails to see if tissue, DNA, fiberts etc. might be collected that could lead them to a probable suspect.
4. The investigator said that Kelly Stanleys only role during the investigation was to help him get access to Erin's web page. She provided him her password so that he could then access Erins site via her guest status on that site.
5. The bed sheet on which Erin and James slept was collected shortly after the incident and place in a trash bag and stored in the garage. The investigator collected the sheet a few days later when he came to ask more questions of the family.
6. During the second session, Lonny Stanley testified that the night before Erin's death, she and Dale had gone to the Brown Jug for a few drinks. She indicated that they stayed there between 1 and 1 1/2 hours. She further indicated that she had had 1 White Russion before going to the tavern and had 3 while she was there. She also indicated that Dale had
drank 10 beers while they were at the tavern.

It is my sincere hope that if anyone had a different version of the testimony they will post it on this threat. I have no desire to incorrectly state what has taken place during these first two session. I know there is more....it's just my brain is tired.

[Busylady]

Sounds like they are gonna have a rough time providing any evidence in this case. No DNA, fibers etc, sheets left at the scene for two days??? What police force does that? If they took the time to collect them why store them at the house? I just don't get it.

Everyones alcohol tolerance is different but 3 White Russians and 10 beers in an 1 1/2 hours would definelty impair most I think, which would make any details they provided maybe questioned?

As I have said before and I realize its not a popular statement something about this whole thing just doesnt seem right. I really hope James isnt getting blamed because he is an easy target.

[the bumblebug]

One small correction: It was Lonnie that had the three White Russians and Dale that had the 10 beers at the tavern. Lonny also said she had one White Russian before she and Dale went to the tavern. For what its worth the top sheet and blanket that was on the bed where James and Erin slept doesn't appear to have been collected at the site and is lost or has been thrown out. That testimony also came from the investigator.

[the bumblebug]

Lonny Stanley said that she and Dale went to the Brown Jug tavern about once a week. I know there were a lot of individuals that wanted to know about what happened to Kelly Stanley's body. Lonny said that Kelly's body was cremated just like Erin's. Again I ask if anyone that might have attended the hearing and has a different take on what was said, please post. I am sure everyone would be anxious to hear.

[MCDRAW]

Sounds like they are gonna have a rough time providing any evidence in this case. No DNA, fibers etc, sheets left at the scene for two days??? What police force does that? If they took the time to collect them why store them at the house? I just don't get it.

Everyones alcohol tolerance is different but 3 White Russians and 10 beers in an 1 1/2 hours would definelty impair most I think, which would make any details they provided maybe questioned?

As I have said before and I realize its not a popular statement something about this whole thing just doesnt seem right. I really hope James isnt getting blamed because he is an easy target.


I agree.

[Indy Gal]

:clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: Sounds like they are gonna have a rough time providing any evidence in this case. No DNA, fibers etc, sheets left at the scene for two days??? What police force does that? If they took the time to collect them why store them at the house? I just don't get it.

Everyones alcohol tolerance is different but 3 White Russians and 10 beers in an 1 1/2 hours would definelty impair most I think, which would make any details they provided maybe questioned?

As I have said before and I realize its not a popular statement something about this whole thing just doesnt seem right. I really hope James isnt getting blamed because he is an easy target.

[Taximom]

Thank you so much for the updates, bumblebug.

[HAWG]

Now I have more questions?
1) Why didnt they scrap her nails?
2) Why didnt they seal the bedroom if they thought she was strangled?
3) What time did they go to the Brown Jug, and what time did they get home?
4) Did they see Erin after they returned?

I will have more they just have not hit me yet.
Thank you for the update bumblebug!!!

[the bumblebug]

HAWG
You'll have to ask the lead investigator regarding Q #1 This came from his own testimony
Q-2 Again you will have to ask the lead investigator
Q-3 I believe Lonny said they went there early in the evening
Q-4 I don't know if they saw Erin after they returned
Note: I am even more concerned about why they didn't run a sexual assault kit. There is a lot more that did not make it into the local paper.
Anyone out there know why?

[the bumblebug]

During Lonny Stanley's testimony she was asked about James and his behavior toward Erin and the Stanley family in general. More specifically, she was asked if she had ever seen James violent or if she had ever seen him threaten anyone. She said she had not seen him violent or threaten anyone. When asked about the specific night Erin and James returned from Ohio, Lonny said that nothing out of the ordinary had occurred. Lonny was then asked about the "the stressful day' comment heard on the 911 tape. She said that what she meant pertained to the long trip to Columbus Ohio and back and the cleaning out of space in the house space for James, Erin's and Alexis' things. She said there were no threats or arguments among James, Erin, Dale or herself. She also said that Kelly's visit to a friends house was just that. Kelly just asked if she could spend the night at a friends house and was told it would be OK. comment: I was just thinking about Alexis and I sure hope she is doing OK...I know that about a week ago an intoxicated mother passed out and rolled over on top of her 2 year old and the baby suffocated. Any feedback would be welcome.

[Taximom]

Thanks again, bumblebug. I would like to know if the parents were allowing James to stay there or if he had to move out. I thought I remembered hearing he had to leave by the next day.

Then there was the "argument" a neighbor heard. I wonder if there will be testimony about that?

[the bumblebug]

I too heard that there had been an argument that had been heard by a neighbor. I also remember hearing that he was asked to leave. I don't think Lonny's testimony included any comments about the argument. Please remember I am only referencing what came out of testimony...I am not in search of anything beyond that because that would be conjecture. I thin Lonny's testimony did cover the issue of James taking care of the baby when the parents accompanied Erin to the hospital. She did say that the baby was left with James. In all honesty I find Lonny's testimony compelling with respect the immediate mood within the house before Erin's death and immediately after the Stanleys left for the hospital. Does their behavior suggest to anybody that they thought there was any reason to believe James was involved. If anyone living in Wayne county has a different take on what I have posted. Please post your ideas. I'm having a hard time making sense of this case based on testimony given thus far.

[Taximom]

Oh, I know, bumblebug. I was just wondering out loud. I suppose they'll call that neighbor if they are really interested in that.

I'd have to go back over all the threads to remember all that I once knew about this case! lol So far it does not sound like James was a danger to anyone. Just IMO from what I'm seeing here. I wish they had transcripts or video available....

[the bumblebug]

Taximom
I imagine that a transcript can be obtained but it might take a little time and cost a few pennies since it will probably have to be transcribed and put into a more readable form. Again I want to emphasize that the information I have posted came from testimony given in the first two sessions of the bond hearing. Needless to say that there is still a lot more to be said by others on the witness lists. I think Dale Stanley will be next after Lonny finishes. If I come up with more I will share it.

[Taximom]

Thanks for all you are doing, bumblebug!! :blowkiss:

[HAWG]

Thank you bumblebug!!!

How is James holding up?
The more I here about this the more I think that this is a big mess. It wasnt handled very professional!!! I just dont think they have what it is going to take to convict him.

[the bumblebug]

I just made another post and this time it was on the Suspect James McFarland thread.

[the bumblebug]

HAWG and others
Today Dale Stanley testified as did the coroner. We now apparently know that even though everyone was told at the autopsy that Erin (a 19 year old female) died under suspicious circumstances. Neither the investigator, the coroner nor the pathologist thought it might be a good idea to comb the body for hair, threads etc. run a sexual assault kit (rape Kit) on the body or collect scrapings from the fingernails that might help in one way or another determine who might have assaulted or otherwise choked this young lady. I believe there will be one more session with Lonny Stanley to finish up questioning that was completed at the last questioning. For Wayne county residence Have you seen any of these items reported in the local media lately.

[Taximom]

Oh boy, bumblebug. I'm half for letting him off just because they did such a shoddy job. The defense will have a blast with this. :(

Thanks again! :blowkiss:

[Chicogirl36]

We now apparently know that even though everyone was told at the autopsy that Erin (a 19 year old female) died under suspicious circumstances. Neither the investigator, the coroner nor the pathologist thought it might be a good idea to comb the body for hair, threads etc. run a sexual assault kit (rape Kit) on the body or collect scrapings from the fingernails that might help in one way or another determine who might have assaulted or otherwise choked this young lady.

OMG- I cant believe that- I would think that it would be SOP on ANY homicide/suspicous/undetermined death- What is wrong with these people? Their lack of competence showed in the beginning of the investigation when they were quiet about Erin's death- How did they plan on prosecuting him? What evidence? People watch too many crime shows and read too many true crime foums now a days- they want to see real evidence- they even scared me for taking so long in Cutt's trial- they are up on the processes that need to be gone thru-
Although I personally believe that he is gulity, I have a bad feeling that a jury may not be legally campable of convicting him- what evidence are they going to use? No DNA, hair, sample, swabs,etc. Even the sheets are contaminated from being in the garage-It took them a few days to come over and collect- what is wrong with this small town PD??

[the bumblebug]

Chicogirl36
I just made a hugh post which would take me forever to post her on the Paladium-Item web site forum. What I posted above is just a small part of what I was able to post on the other site. It summarizes testimony from Lonny Stanley, Dale Stanley and the coroner thus far. I believe they plan on holding one more small session to finish up testimony that was being given by Lonny Stanley when they ran out of time. Even though it's kind of long I thin you will enjoy it.

[the bumblebug]

HAWG

Sorry, I missed answering your earlier question. James seems to be OK.

[Chicogirl36]

Thanks for all of the updates bumblebug- The Pal-item forum is huge and has many threads- I found one that had some extensive posts on it, but Im not sure if you have the same screen name over there? I will post the link I found, becaus eit has some great posts on it. Please post a link to your post so I can find it easier- I will keep looking in the meantime- Thanks again- You have put a lot of dedication into following the facts on this case-

http://tinyurl.com/3xpcgf

[HAWG]

Thank you bumblebug, Look like to me he will be out on bond before you know it. They have really messed this investigation up. I really dont see him being convicted without a reasonable dought on the evidence they have presented so far.

[the bumblebug]

Chicogirl36
First me say that I would not use the same screen name if I were posting on the Pal-Item forum. The forums are quite difference and the individuals posting on this forum seem to be more mature and willing to examine the facts. The Pal-Item forum seems to be more emotional in nature and that is to be expected with so many people knowing many of the individuals involved. Yes I am familiar with the posts you are talking about and I feel sure you can read between these lines. For those who live in the vicinity and have intense interest in this case, let me assure you that my interest are two fold. First, I don't want someone who may be innocent sent to jail for a crime he may not have committed. Second, as a former journalist, I am genuinely interested in the pursuit of truth and not conjecture, theories or hunches. A few days ago an Indiana man was released from prison after serving 24 years for a crime he did not commit. My concern in this case is that the defense appears to be denied forensic evidence that is usually available to them when a crime scene is taped off in a timely fashion and the evidence is properly collected. As a minimum I would have thought the residence would have been taped off and processed as soon as the autopsy was completed.

HAWG
I don't know if the defendant will be out on bond soon but it appears he has stuck by his story from the very beginning and that might be important. As I understand it he did not flee the jurisdiction and I find that interesting as well.

[HAWG]

Yes, I thought of that because if he had done it seems to me that he would have wanted to run. I have more doughts then ever about this . James has a temper but temper and murder are two different things. Like I said because this investigation has been so messed up we will never know the truth!!! If James didnt do it who did? With the back door it leaves it wide open!!!!

[the bumblebug]

HAWG
I wasn't there and I don't know who did it. I just wish there was more evidence available. I agree with you temper comment. There are a lot of people with tempers that haven't killed anybody.

[the bumblebug]

As crazy as this case has been, I'm am thinking of writing it up as a case study for an Ethics in Criminal Justice (CJ) or Ethics in Communications class. I have friends in both disciplines and I feel sure they would love to present this to their students. If I decided to do this, I want to thank the forum members for compiling so useful much information like media threads, photos, drawings, and a time a time line that would all be most useful. Thanks to all.

[the bumblebug]

This is for HAWG and others who know James. I understand that he was beaten up last night inside the Wane County Jail. I do not have any particulars. This case is indeed beginning to sound very serious.

[Wrinkles]

Greetings Bumblebug,

You wrote:
>>This case is indeed beginning to sound very serious.<<

Can you elaborate on what you mean? Serious in which fashion? Does the "serious" relate to your report of hearing James had been beaten up? Do you have a news article to which you can refer us about this?

Wrinkles

[Taximom]

Good luck if you decide to write about this, bumblebug.

Sorry to hear about James.

[the bumblebug]

I couldn't help noticing that the most recent forum on this case has virtually come to a screeching halt. I have a hard time believing that everyone in the county where this happened has suddenly lost interest especially after so much was revealed that was not published in the newspaper. I understand that the Pal-item reporter spend a lot of time chatting with the prosecution side during the session breaks and after the end of the session. Any reporter worth his or her salt knows that you don't do that out in public. It tends to make the coverage look one sided. Example: I believe they said he was surrounded by armed guards or words to that effect. I understand there were two jailers from jail one mail and one female. I believe this is standard practice. That is one of the reasons I call the situation serious. I's like someone is trying to keep very recent stuff out of the press. To directly answer your question about a news article. You have made my point for me. There haven't been any news articles that have said anything to the defenses favor to include a contaminated crime scene, a lose of the top sheet and blanket, the lose of chain of custody on the lower bed sheet and then not having it tested for DNA, fibers, hairs etc. They have said nothing about anything that would be to the defense's benefit. The question is why. If there is someone out there that can explain why this information wasn't reported I would like to hear it. I use to teach Journalism and I assure you my students would not have missed those specifics.

[HAWG]

Im sorry to here that James was beaten up I dont want to see that, butt I kinda figured something like that would happen.
bumblebug, Haley is getting here tonsil taken out tomarrow. I know she will be fine, It is just scary because she is so little.
Please let us know if he is alright!!!

I agree that they have some explaining to do. I feel like they are holding something back. Something is not right!!!

[the bumblebug]

HAWG

As far as I know he is OK. With this being a high profile case I can't imagine the prosecution not taking special precautions to insure he is not in danger. I couldn't help notice in the Pal-items Internet edition they have reposted their article about the last hearing and this time they have shown that many comments have been submitted to include some with a lot of info that the Pal-item didn't report. I imagine that some editor was not happy about having his paper sort of shown up by an observer. IMO ... I would think the paper and other media would play this close the best from now on to preclude readers from believing they (the paper) have chosen sides and are only reporting one side of the story. If this one side reporting continues I imagine that some readers might conclude that it is being done on purpose. If that were the case then, in deed, we would really have a story of intrigue. I wish Haley well. I seem to remember favoring ice cream when I was sick.

[Taximom]

O/T alert: Hawg, my son just had his out and it went real well. The doc told him to stay away from dairy stuff like ice cream because it makes more mucus (sp) and causes more swallowing. Icee/slushies/slurpees and popsicles were fine though. He was in heaven! lol I hope she does well. ((Haley))

[Taximom]

Is Pal-Item the only main newspaper in town, bumblebug? I don't understand the lack of news about this strange case.

[HAWG]

she is a popsicle girl. We got the real fruit ones and jello.
I cant believe the newspaper. They must not want to sell papers? Or they know something we dont know?

[the bumblebug]

I may have to slow down or stop my postings. I am very concerned right now.

[MCDRAW]

I may have to slow down or stop my postings. I am very concerned right now.


Concerned for your safety?

[Taximom]

((bumblebug)) Please be careful. I can't imagine though what might be happening to you because you are only posting updates here. Have you been threatened? Tell us about it if you can. Take care.

[Indiana at Heart]

Oh I hope she can let someone know!

I'll be Richmond In by April 15 I'm moving back home! I can't wait. Been 17 years since I live there!

[the bumblebug]

I am not worried about myself. I no longer live in Wayne county.
That's all I can say.

[Taximom]

Well, if you have anything you want us to know, but don't want to post it here, you can always PM us. Are you worried about James?

[the bumblebug]

Taximom
The short answer to your question is yes. I just saw on the Pal-Item's forums page that someone posted that the coroner is now trying to charge the county for storage of the Stanley girls bodies. If someone that lives in Richmond can keep track of what's going on around Richmond or Centerville and post it here I would appreciate it.
Thanks in advance.

[Smugshots]

Taximom
The short answer to your question is yes. I just saw on the Pal-Item's forums page that someone posted that the coroner is now trying to charge the county for storage of the Stanley girls bodies. If someone that lives in Richmond can keep track of what's going on around Richmond or Centerville and post it here I would appreciate it.
Thanks in advance.

I'm confused, I thought they were cremated? What is there for the coroner to charge for storage?

[the bumblebug]

I believe that came from another post. Someone who lives in Richmond said that he understood that happened. you might want to look into post either here or in the Paladium Item newspaper. They have a web version of the paper they post every day and they also have forums. Ever day this case seems to get more strange. I remember at the very beginning of this case that I thought the relationships of the players would end up being more important that the crime. I still believe this to be the case especially when to examine what happened to any potential evidence.

[HAWG]

haley is doing alot better, she is eating strange stuff but she is eating.
Iam so confused, but I stay that way in this case. I hope they get on with it soon and not drag it out. I think that there is some covering up going on when it comes to evidence. They have totally messed up. They need to make that known because it looks worse if they dont!!!just my opinion!!!

[the bumblebug]

HAWG

First let me say that I am glad that Haley is doing better. I too am confused about this case. Nonetheless, when evidence is not collected, not analyzed, lost and the body cremated quickly it brings a lot of questions to mind. In some ways the unavailable facts seem to say a great deal.

[HAWG]

Well, I hope he is okay and this works out for him . With the evidence being so messed up I really dont beleive they are going to get a coviction.I think that there was alot more that they dont know about this case and probley wont find out because of their expertese HAHA! They do need to answer some quetions if they think they are going to sweep this under the rug They are in for a big suprise.

[the bumblebug]

With evidence not being collected, not being analyzed, lost and the body being cremated, it makes me wonder how the case can be pursued at all. It seems that with anything less than a confession that there is already more than enough doubt in this case. I can't get over what has not been said in the local media. Anyone out there got any thoughts on that?

[the bumblebug]

Has anyone know when the next session of the bond hearing is scheduled. I would sure like to know just in case I can get someone there.

[HAWG]

I havent heard anything bumblebug. they just are not saying much at all about it period.

[the bumblebug]

HAWG

I think there is another session of the bond hearing today. If you hear anything please post. Thanks

[Chicogirl36]

Bumblebug and Hawg-

Thank you both for keeping us up to date on what is going on- I cant believe that the DA even arrested James after what we have seen- his lawyers must think it is a joke? Not that I am a lawyer, or have any authority on prosecuting cases, but I have never seen such amateur detective/police work in my life-
Centerville makes themselves sound like Mayberry PD with a bunch of Barney Fifes running around- but then again, they probably did a better job- they had a script- lol

Keep up the good updates both/all of you- I check the Pal-Item Forum once in a while, but it is filled with so much crap, you get knee deep quik :eek:

[the bumblebug]

I think there was another session of the bond hearing last Monday. I noticed
the Pal-Item (local paper) said nothing about it. This was a high profile case and it doesn't make sense not to cover it with all that has come out in the past sessions. Whatever is going on here...has the Pal-Item has made a conscience decision to say nothing. Very interesting.

[the bumblebug]

Hello, AIs there anybody out there that knows what happened at the bond hearing. Other than what has been posted in these forums I have not heard a thing. I wonder if this case will end up getting dismissed because of the lack of forensic evidence. Can't wait to find out. I have a case study to write.

[the bumblebug]

I have learned that the parties involved are still trying to come up with a date that all can agree upon regarding addition testimony from Mrs. Stanley.
I wonder if all these delays might result in a change of venue request on the part of the defense attorney. I think Hancock county would provide an excellent jury pool for this kind of trial. A lot of Lilly employees work there as well as a lot of people who work in downtown Indianapolis. I suspect what I am trying to say is that this jury pool might need to see some real evidence before convicting anyone of such a serious crime.

[Littledeer]

I'm confused. With all the information that shows a "lack" of sufficient evidence that James did kill Erin, why would the defense think a change of venue is needed??

Also, what do you mean by "Lilly employees"?? I must have missed something.

[the bumblebug]

Littledeer
Here is my thought process on this one. If the prosecutor is determined to proceed with what appears to be such a weak case then who knows what the underlying motives or factors might exist. Small towns are sometimes a little too cozy for my blood. Obviously there are two ways to look at small town justice. When everyone knows each other one would think it might be easy for the parties to get together and work things out. The other possibility is that sometimes people in small towns tend to cover or take care of one another. The Lilly comments refers to the fact that Lilly is a major drug manufacturer and hires a lot of chemists and other well educated professionals. Additionally, Greenfield is a major bedroom community for professionals who work in an around Indianapolis.
My only real point is that if this case drags on the defense might want to consider taking local issues, personalities and politics out of play by moving the trial to different venue. Actually, I think the trial will stay in Richmond unless something new shows up out of the blue.

[the bumblebug]

I saw it is the Internet version of the Paladium Item that April 11th is suppose to be the date of the next session of the bond hearing. I think they said it will start at 1:30. I wonder if they will let me in after my postings in this forum. If they let me in I will try to post everything I can that is missed by the local media. After the hearing, I might also need to take a quick vacation.

[the bumblebug]

I have a question for any detective or court person out there that is familiar with what is considered common practice today regarding the taking statements. Is it common practice to tape a discussion with the witness or is it preferred to sit down and type up a statement and ask the witness to sign the statement. I know I was always asked to prepare a statement with the witnesses help and have them sign the statement or affidavit. How does a court look at unsigned statements? Regarding this particular case the Lead Investigator said he did not have any statement regarding his request to Kelly Stanley to give him her "My Space" password so he could gain entry into Erin's "My Space" page. I would have thought that it have been advisable to protect Kelly from any later challenge to her entry into Erin's "My Space" after Erin's death. I just find it strange that there appears to be no record of a conversation with Kelly after Erin's death. I would have thought the police would have had lots of questions for her under the circumstances. Lastly, does anyone know where the early rumors regarding this case came from. They were all over the place. If anyone knows I would appreciate a posted reply.

[miss_vegemite]

I have followed this case from the very very beginning. I do think LE bungled a lot. Especially by not treating Erins' death as a crime scene from the beginning. That sure went in James' favor IMO.

And I don't believe in co-incidences as such.. Erin murdered then kelly dying...Hmm I dont think So!!

[the bumblebug]

I agree with your comments. If LE had said that Kelly's death was not of natural causes it wouldn't have squared with their theory that James strangled Erin. Also, it would have virtually assured the linkage of both deaths and James could not have been considered a prime suspect. It is my understanding that James had an air tight alibi fort Kelly's death. The bottom line is that it appear that a lot of assumptions were made in this case that likely are untrue. I find it absolutely impossible for three so called professionals (Lead Investigator, Coroner, and pathologist) to be standing over the body of a 19 year old female and not deciding it necessary to take finger nail scrapings, run a sexual assault kit, nor combing the body for hairs, fibers, or anything else that might contain DNA. I know some of the players in this case and believe me it is very strange for the family not to say anything at all about this case. It's like somebody is afraid to let them say anything. On the witness stand they admitted to a lot and did not try to point a finger to the defendant. They said there were no arguments, fights or violence the night before Erin's death. The only thing that was said was that they talked to James about the need to find a job and keep it. They also stated that James had found a job in Ohio (just across the state line) and that they were working on the details to let him use one of their cars to get there. Additionally, he was to report to work the next evening. This case is strange and gets more so each day. It's like everything that could go wrong with this case has gone wrong with respect to the collection and processing of forensic evidence. I would certainly like for someone who controls such things to take another pole as to whether they think the defendant murdered Erin. Do I hear a second on that motion.

[MCDRAW]

I second that motion. I have never been sure about James being guilty. I do find it very suspicious that her sister died a few days later. If one had a seizure and died. Isn't it possible that the other one did too? Do you know if there were any toxicology reports done on both sisters? This case just baffles me.

[HAWG]

Im pretty sure they did toxicology test on both and they came back no drugs or alcohol in their system. I third the motion because the evidence or should I say the lack of evidence in this case is a complete mess and I think people feel alot different.

[the bumblebug]

I believe the way the coroner worded it when he was referring to Kelly's death was there was something in the family's medical background history that helped him reach the conclusion that she died from a seizure. I do know that some neurological illnesses tend to run in families and some like chatorei tumors can cause seizures with little or no warning. These tumors wrap themselves around the spine at the top of the spine. They generally start forming very early in a child"s life. I understand they are sometimes hard to find. All updates on the trial or rumors about the case would be appreciated.

[MCDRAW]

Do you think it's possible that instead of looking for signs of a seizure, they charged James because he was in the room with her? My brother has seizures in his sleep and it took the Doctors over a year before they diagnoised him. They kept telling us it was a sleep disorder. My Dad insisted that they put him on seizure medication. He said if it was a sleep disorder the medicine wouldn't help. He's been on the medication for about 12 years now. The only time he has had an episode, they tried to take him off his medication. So I know that some seizures can be hard to detect.

[the bumblebug]

mcdraw: the lead investigator said almost exactly what you said on the stand. He said he arrested James because it was just common sense that he did it because he had admitted that he was in the room with her. If that is not word for word ...it's close. Personally I'm unimpressed since everyone knew he was in the room with her because it was he that called Erin's parents and asked that they call 9-1-1. The Lead Investigator also admitted that he had never considered the possibility that Erin had died outside the room and returned injured or had been brought back into the room and placed on the bed. I am a very strong sleeper and when I am asleep after a long day it take a lot to wake me up. The bottom line,.. with so little forensic evidence collected and processed, why was anyone charged with murder in this case. I believe the term "rush to judgment" certainly applies in this case. Comments welcome. I know there must be more info out there.

[pooky169]

I have been following this case closely and with everything said I am not sure that James had anything to do with Erin's death. I mean all of Bumblebugs theorys make sense. I mean if James and Dale had a disagreement earlier that evening that doesn't give him an excuse to hurt Erin he could have told Erin it wasn't gonna work him living there and as soon as he found a job he or they would be moving.
I just hope since LE has bungled this case badly that a man who may be completely innocent isn't sent to prison to serve for a murder he didn't commit.
And on a side note I dont remember did James ever submit to a lie detector test? If not i would order one to prove my innocence if I was him because they are supposed to be pretty much foolproof.

[MCDRAW]

I have been following this case closely and with everything said I am not sure that James had anything to do with Erin's death. I mean all of Bumblebugs theorys make sense. I mean if James and Dale had a disagreement earlier that evening that doesn't give him an excuse to hurt Erin he could have told Erin it wasn't gonna work him living there and as soon as he found a job he or they would be moving.
I just hope since LE has bungled this case badly that a man who may be completely innocent isn't sent to prison to serve for a murder he didn't commit.
And on a side note I dont remember did James ever submit to a lie detector test? If not i would order one to prove my innocence if I was him because they are supposed to be pretty much foolproof.


I'm not sure that lie detectors are fool proof. They say that O.J. could pass a lie detector because over the years he has convinced himself he didn't do it. And lie detectors are not admissable in court. Maybe they should have given him one in the beginning to rule him out. I, too, hope an innocen man doesn't get sent to prison just so they can "solve a case".

[MCDRAW]

Bumblebug: Do you think the police department is corrupt or just inept. Don't answer if it will cause you trouble.

[Blink34]

I'm not sure that lie detectors are fool proof. They say that O.J. could pass a lie detector because over the years he has convinced himself he didn't do it. And lie detectors are not admissable in court. Maybe they should have given him one in the beginning to rule him out. I, too, hope an innocen man doesn't get sent to prison just so they can "solve a case".
I am not familiar with this case except superficially, but OJ did not pass a lie detector test, his result was "deceptive", and as you pointed out it was not admissable because certain psychological conditions whether organic or medication induced can alter a result. Conversely, because in theory they can exclude a suspect who is not decptive, you probably won't see anyone lobbying for a change- Typically the result is only ever mentioned if they pass

[the bumblebug]

This case seems to have taken on a life of its own. I would really like to think that the Centerville police department is not really corrupt. I would more likely think they got in over their heads and tried to make sure the evidence collected supported their hypothesis as to how the events unfolded. In other words, it appears they didn't examine all the potential scenarios that were out there as to how this death occurred. In some ways, I think not collecting finger nail scrapings nor running a rape kit at the autopsy is even a more serious issue. In essence, the defense has been denied information that is almost always collected in strangulation cases like this one. A rape kit would have almost assuredly revealed if Erin had had sex that night which would certainly be important in assessing James's supposed motive. Finger nail scrapings might provide insight into the persons identity that might have assaulted her. Collection of fibers and similar items which contain DNA might also have provided insight into the culprit's identity. Having said all this it might just be that she died of an injury that occurred when she had a seizure. Anyone seeing a person experiencing a seizure knows the event can appear to be both intense and violent. Falls and secondary injuries are not uncommon. We could all go on but in all honestly I am just looking forward to the next session of the bond hearing. I wonder if the judge will issue a summary judgment and dismiss the case for lack of evidence. With all the scenarios that are out there how can this case be tried and a conclusion reached without reasonable doubt. Anybody out there agree?

[MCDRAW]

a honest mistake is better than corruption in my opinion. I

[Taximom]

I don't think this is a case of corruption, at least from the little I've heard. Inept? Incapable of handling a case like this? Yeah. :( I'm sorry for the Stanley Sisters if they are not getting justice.

[HAWG]

I just wish they would have been more thero. Because they wasnt we are always going to wonder about the truth. I have said from the begining that we will never know the truth and that really bugs me for my daughters sack and my grandaughters. Hopefully this will all be over and the right person will be in jail for this terrible crime!!!

[Taximom]

You certainly have said that from the beginning, as have a few others. ((Hawg))

[the bumblebug]

Taximom & HAWG

I agree that Erin and Kelly deserve justice and I feel sorry for them. If the defendant is innocent, I feel sorry for him as well. He has already spent 6 months in jail and has been beaten up with more waiting to come before his trial. I must admit that small towns scare me when it comes to justice. You never know who went to school with whom, who is related to whom, or whose child played little league with whom etc. I would have less doubts if the case had been handled by another agency like the State Police. I think we will know a lot more after the next hearing session. I think it will be interesting to see how much Mrs. Stanley has been prepped for her testimony. Regarding the comments about lie detectors, they do have flaws and can be beaten by a good sociopath. Please note that my postings are either my opinions or come from information obtained from testimony in open court. I'm not trying to point fingers at anybody or accusing anyone.

[Chicogirl36]

Taximom & HAWG

I agree that Erin and Kelly deserve justice and I feel sorry for them. If the defendant is innocent, I feel sorry for him as well. He has already spent 6 months in jail and has been beaten up with more waiting to come before his trial. I must admit that small towns scare me when it comes to justice. You never know who went to school with whom, who is related to whom, or whose child played little league with whom etc. I would have less doubts if the case had been handled by another agency like the State Police. I think we will know a lot more after the next hearing session. I think it will be interesting to see how much Mrs. Stanley has been prepped for her testimony. Regarding the comments about lie detectors, they do have flaws and can be beaten by a good sociopath. Please note that my postings are either my opinions or come from information obtained from testimony in open court. I'm not trying to point fingers at anybody or accusing anyone.

Keep up the good work Bumblebug- You are and have done a great job reporting the facts. I too, feel that LE has goofed up all the facts on both of these cases- IF ONLY they would have done standard, everyday forensics on Erin, they could have some evidence to stand up in court. I am afraid that either:
A. James did it and there was not enough evidence preserved at the crime scene/morgue to prove his guilt in a court of law and he will walk OR
B. James didnt do it and like you said, some small-town, good-ole boys will get their "rough" justice on him and lock him up without enough evidence proving his guilt or innocence.

My wish, as Im sure most WS'ers is, for Erin and Kelly to get justice in their deaths. They were both so young, so pretty, and had too much life to live still. It is a shame that there probably will never be any 100% proven facts during Jame's trial regarding their deaths either. Speaking of that, there is "no one" being held responsible for Kelly's death (which I dont buy the seizure theory). I think taxi or vegemite said it earlier- there are no coincidences. Two healthy sisters don't just die a week apart from each other and chalk it up to a coincidence.- Sorry- just doesnt happen! :mad:

God Bless Mr and Mrs Stanley both- They have that beautiful baby girl to take care of and need to stay healthy both physically and mentally in order to be a positive influence in her life-

[the bumblebug]

Chicagogirl36
You know I kind of wonder if there isn't another option. Could law enforcement have realized their hunches were wrong and not collect incriminating evidence because they really didn't want him found guilty.
Just a thought (IMO). The reason I added this one is because the Stanley's both testified that there had been no violence, fights, arguments etc. the night before Erin's death. If they really wanted to nail him they certainly had their chance since James was the only other person supposedly in the house that night. Just to ad a little more, Mr. Stanley said he usually slept across the hall from Erin and James' bedroom with the door open. Mrs. Stanley said she fell asleep that night in another room. Both admitted to drinking the night before at the brown jug tavern in town. Mrs. Stanley said Mr. Stanley drank 10 beers at the tavern where they stayed for between one to one and half hours. Mr. Stanley said he only drank two or three beers. Mrs. Stanley said she drank one white Russian before she left for the tavern and three white Russians while she was there.

If anyone out there can get your hands on the probable cause affidavit and read it, I think you will ask yourself where is the probable cause. I didn't find anything that explained why the defendant should be any more of a suspect than anyone else inside or outside the house.

I sincerely hope that a local person can attend the next session of the hearing and report what was actually said. We need more of this type of information. The facts need to be posted to forums like this one.

[Taximom]

I hope you caught my "if", bumblebug. Truly, I don't want anything to happen to James IF he is innocent. If he's guilty and gets away with it, it's a shame.

ETA: I also appreciate your info and updates. There certainly isn't much being printed. :(

[Chicogirl36]

Chicagogirl36
You know I kind of wonder if there isn't another option. Could law enforcement have realized their hunches were wrong and not collect incriminating evidence because they really didn't want him found guilty.
Just a thought (IMO). The reason I added this one is because the Stanley's both testified that there had been no violence, fights, arguments etc. the night before Erin's death. If they really wanted to nail him they certainly had their chance since James was the only other person supposedly in the house that night. Just to ad a little more, Mr. Stanley said he usually slept across the hall from Erin and James' bedroom with the door open. Mrs. Stanley said she fell asleep that night in another room. Both admitted to drinking the night before at the brown jug tavern in town. Mrs. Stanley said Mr. Stanley drank 10 beers at the tavern where they stayed for between one to one and half hours. Mr. Stanley said he only drank two or three beers. Mrs. Stanley said she drank one white Russian before she left for the tavern and three white Russians while she was there.

If anyone out there can get your hands on the probable cause affidavit and read it, I think you will ask yourself where is the probable cause. I didn't find anything that explained why the defendant should be any more of a suspect than anyone else inside or outside the house.

I sincerely hope that a local person can attend the next session of the hearing and report what was actually said. We need more of this type of information. The facts need to be posted to forums like this one.

WOW- there are more twists and turns than a rollercoaster! That sure is a lot of alcohol consumed in a short period of time, plus, IIRC, they had a few drinks before they went to the bar-they should have been knocked out pretty good with that amount- IMO, but Im not a big drinker either.
I dont understand about what you are saying about LE not collecting on purpose? Maybe I am reading it wrong, it is a Monday and I am blonde...lol.:crazy: You would think they would want as much as possible to back up their arrest and make their case. They had to know at the time of arrest that they screwed up BIG time, and from the news printed in that area, there sure isnt a public outcry for justice! It kind of seems like the community forgot about this tragedy. I do agree BB, we definitely need more info. :confused:

[the bumblebug]

Chicogirl36
I kind of tossed that comment out there tongue in cheek. My only real point was to point out that there are about as many stories out there as there are people who can make them up. It will be interesting to see what stories the witnesses bring to next session of the bond hearing. I certainly now realize that my attempt at describing something so confusing that approaches what we might call "the theater of the absurd" didn't carry its intended meaning. Sometimes that happens when we lose site of the reality that surrounds a unique event. I think from now on, I'll stay closer to the facts as we know them or as they were testified to be in court. I am not at all trying to say that anybody did anything improper. I think we can all remember when we have moved quickly moved into a forest in search for some trees. Chicogirl36: and others: I not only couldn't find the trees I got lost in them. I do hope there will someone else at the next bond hearing session to keep us all straight. I don't expect much from the local media in the way of solid reporting. Have a good day and let us pray for all involved.

[pooky169]

http://palitem.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080411/NEWS01/804110302


http://palitem.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080411/UPDATES/80411030


Latest updates on the case.
Not alot to go on but hopefully things start going a lil quicker.
I agree that is is a weak case I see James being able to get bail. They don't have enough concrete evidence. I wish I could post more but not alot happening.

[the bumblebug]

I just posted what seems to have happened at today's bond hearing on the Pal-Item forum about this case. They have two forum articles close together so you might want to check both of them. I think I posted different items on each. Have a good Day.

[Littledeer]

Glad to see you around bumblebug. Was getting worried about you.

[the bumblebug]

Littledeer
As far as I know next week they will have a Pre-trial hearing in chambers. I expect a break after that perhaps until early or mid May when the trial is scheduled to start. I will be on vacation next week but will return before the beginning of May.

[Chicogirl36]

Snipped from article that pooky posted, and explains what happened today at the hearing:
SNIP:
Todays hearing was very short with only a few new items being revealed. The defense again asked Mrs. Stanley about the sequence of events that took place the day after Erin's death. He asked about the statement that she gave to the police on the day of Erin's death and she was also asked about what happened the the bed clothes that were in the bedroom where Erin, James and Alexis slept. She said that she had asked James to pick up the bottom sheet because it was wet and place it in a trash bag, She said that James placed it in the bag and the bag was later placed in a trashcan outside. She said the bag was retrieved from the trashcan a day or so later when the local police stopped by. She said the mattress was taken to the Richmond dump about one month after Erin's passing. She was asked if she had been given any instructions from the police to preserve items in the bedroom and she said she had not been asked to do so. Pretty much at this point, the defense said they had no more questions for Mrs. Stanley. The prosecution asked Mrs. Stanley about the bad lock on the door that had been discussed in an earlier session. She said to get to the bad lock one would first have to go through the garage doors or through a metal door that leads out from the garage. She further indicated that she thought the garage doors were locked as well as the small metal door that led out from the garage. Mrs. Stanley also said that her dog "Shadow" was with her when she fell asleep in the living room that evening. She described the dog as an older dog but somewhat active and attentive. She indicated that the dog did not seem to react to any unique activity after she fell asleep in the living room.
SNIP~more at link http://palitem.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080411/UPDATES/80411030

The first link on pooky's post discusses the length of the bond hearing. It is saying that it could possibly be the longest in history? It may not be THE longest, but it is certainly is in Centerville's history. I wondered the same thing, but I didnt want to sound dumb in case it was some special hearing I didnt know about and missed some info along the way :confused: :rolleyes:
Anyhoo, any ideas on WHY it has taken so long? I am thinking that maybe the DA is getting cold feet now that all the cards have been dealt. I certainly would be embarrassed if I had to try this case. I personally think there isnt enough evidence in this case to support anything that they say. It seems Lonny and Dale's testimony has somehow helped him. I also feel that since this is such a small community, that when/if it finally does go to trial, that the community will already have a pre-conceived notion from all of this evidence being made public. It looks like Shipman will need to wipe the egg off of his face before he continues- :crazy:

One more thing- Isnt James' grandpa the only one in his family that could possibly have enough $ to post his bond? If this is true, anyone know/heard if he is willing to post bond? Since this has been such a long, and expensive case to try, would they hold this type of hearing without checking to see if he has a source of income? I dont know if that is his legal right, but since it is so rare to hold a bond hearing on a murder case, do you think they would first check to even see if it is possible to even post bond?

[the bumblebug]

As I understand it the initial reason the bond hearing took so long was because the court recorder had a scheduled vacation and the court did not want to bring in another that was unfamiliar with the case. The next delay occurred when Mrs. Stanley called in sick when she was scheduled to continue her testimony. I believe there is a pretrial scheduled for next week in chambers. I think also the trial is scheduled sometime in Mid May. I really suspect that this bond hearing was an opportunity for the defense to see what evidence had been collected. I would think it might be easier to prepare a case if the defendant was more readily available to help . I think another reason for the delay might have something to do with court scheduling. I suspect this since all the hearings ended up on Friday. Regarding the bail. I think James' attorney is probably working this case on his time schedule with little expectation of payment. I do know that before he took the case he was with James at his first appearance before the Judge after he had been arrested. I understand he just happened to be in the building at the time. What I am wondering about now is whether or not the local paper will summarize the bond hearing and print all the things they missed. I did noticed the reporter was in the court room.

[Chicogirl36]

As I understand it the initial reason the bond hearing took so long was because the court recorder had a scheduled vacation and the court did not want to bring in another that was unfamiliar with the case. The next delay occurred when Mrs. Stanley called in sick when she was scheduled to continue her testimony. I believe there is a pretrial scheduled for next week in chambers. I think also the trial is scheduled sometime in Mid May. I really suspect that this bond hearing was an opportunity for the defense to see what evidence had been collected. I would think it might be easier to prepare a case if the defendant was more readily available to help . I think another reason for the delay might have something to do with court scheduling. I suspect this since all the hearings ended up on Friday. Regarding the bail. I think James' attorney is probably working this case on his time schedule with little expectation of payment. I do know that before he took the case he was with James at his first appearance before the Judge after he had been arrested. I understand he just happened to be in the building at the time. What I am wondering about now is whether or not the local paper will summarize the bond hearing and print all the things they missed. I did noticed the reporter was in the court room.

Thank you for clearing all that up BB- I didnt realize all of the "technical" difficulties and setbacks they have had during this. I just re-read that article, and boy , the PI sure is biased, IMO. Maybe its just me, but speaking from someone who is no legal expert, but it sounds like they are biasing any potential jurors. From reading this alone, I get the idea that they are delaying the trial due to his possible innocense/lack of evidence. Now that you explained what really happened, it shows what a mess they have on their hands. I cant believe this paper has been 'allowed' to get away with this type of reporting. I dont know, but suspect, but is the PI the only paper in Centerville? I find it hard to believe, but then I have heard stories about small town politics and government.
What a shame~

[the bumblebug]

Yes, the P-I is the only paper in town. I think they are part of the Gannett chain but I have never seen this type of reporting at the local level in their other papers. This is one of those cases where you have to ask yourself if its better to ask for a change of venue to get a more objective jury or keep the case in Wayne county and count of the ineptness of local law enforcement to secure an acquittal. I'm glad that I am not James' attorney...what a question. There are new posting addresses this case on forum threads in the Pal-Item. I think they address a couple of interesting topics. I think it is very interesting that the investigator apparently never prepared a statement on what kind of assistance Kelly was providing the police. The Lead Investigator testified that the police said the only help she provided was providing her password so the police could gain access to Erin's My Space page. If Kelly had thought that James was guilty, I would have thought that they would have prepared a statement...preferably a signed affidavit noting what she believed about his guilt or innocence. Additionally, I would think they would have prepared documentation describing her participation in the investigation in order to protect her and themselves. I feel reasonably sure that there are laws out there that address unauthorized access to Internet hosted web sites like "My Space"
I can't help wonder if this means that Kelly didn't think James was involved in Erin's death. Enough said

[the bumblebug]

I decided to post the posting that appears in the Pal-Item: Here it is:
This is in response to another poster who thought Kelly thought James was involved in her sisters death.

Freelancer
Sorry, but I think Kelly actually didn't think James was the perpetrator. The lead investigator said that Kelly's only assistance was to provide her (Kelly's) password information so he could gain access to Erin's "My Space" page. I believe the investigator said that Kelly had some kind special access to Erin's page...perhaps as an invited guest or some other category of authorized visitor. I think it is very important to note that their appears to be no record of the investigator's discussions with Kelly that spelled out exactly in what way she was helping with the investigation. I don't recall the investigator saying anything about getting access to James' "My Space" page. I believe he also said that he got access through a computer at the police station and not the one in the house. I wonder if the home computer was ever examined. I would think that if Kelly was contributing to the investigation beyond just providing her password that the police would want to have that well documented to protect both Kelly and themselves. I suspect that there are laws out there regarding gaining unauthorized access to electronic information hosted on Internet sites like "My Space". Here is my bottom line on Kelly. If Kelly knew the perpetrator or even had suspicions why is there not a statement from her telling the police whom she thought was involved or responsible for Erin's death. If I were the investigator, I assure you that I would not wait to ask that question and I would be darn sure to put Kelly's answer down on paper in the form of a signed affidavit. Wildhorses59. I hope this information obtained from bond hearing testimony addresses some of the issues you mentioned in your last two paragraphs. I think your right . I imagine that Kelly was privy to what went on in the house.

[the bumblebug]

I understand the trial may not be held till Sept or Oct. I suspect that more discovery is under way. I think this suggest that the defense believes somewhere out there is evidence that will show his client is not guilty. It's a shame that James has to wait this all out in Jail.

[pooky169]

I am hoping they are doing more testing on evidence and such as to why Erin was found dead. After all this time and all the bungled evidence and the way LE has handled this I am beginning to doubt James's guilt.
Like I said before I hope if he is innocent and LE didn't do all the necessary testing on the evidence and such I hope he isn't convicted and sent to prison on a charge he didn't commit.
My prayers to the Stanley family and Alexis.
Also more prayers to James in hopes they can find out the truth and if he isn't guilty he can be released to possibly lead a normal life with some contact with his daughter Alexis with Erin gone besides Dale and Lonny he is all she has left.

[Indy Gal]

I hope this man gets a fair trial. We can all see it hasnt been fair for him so far. Now if he is guilty I will eat my crow. But I really have doubted his guilt.

[MCDRAW]

I don't think James is guilty either. I have wondered if she might have had a seizure like her sister.

[HAWG]

I wanted to post since I havent been posting because I just dont know what to say. I have such mixed emotion about this. It really hurts me to think that James may go to prison for something he didnt do an then on the other hand I havent forgot the James that was so angery. I just dont know and will never know now that so many mistakes have been made. I can only hope that it comes out in the trial so that we dont have to wonder if he really did it.
I want to thank everyone for their information it is helping as much as it can. This is a very unusual situation. Thank you for being there!!!
Because they didnt do the testing on Erin that they did on Kelly we will never know if it was a sizure and that is so sad for everyone involved.

[deb2007]

IMO this whole case has been a complete disaster from the beginning. I have a feeling that we may never know the truth to what happened to these young, beautiful girls. They had so much to live for and so very much to give. Very sad indeed.

[Indiana at Heart]

I hope this man gets a fair trial. We can all see it hasnt been fair for him so far. Now if he is guilty I will eat my crow. But I really have doubted his guilt.



I too hope he gets a fair trial. This case threw me for a loop! If I was wrong about James I will say I'm sorry if he is found not guilty!


On another note. Indy how things going with you?? I'm back living in Indiana now over here in Richmond!!!

[the bumblebug]

HAWG
I know how easy it is to look back especially in your circumstance. I anm sure there will be some that will dwell on James past. Nonetheless, I think what matters most is what happened the night 'Erin died. The Stanleys testified as fact that there was no anger expressed, no threats made nor violence present the night before her death. In my opinion, I think there is as much a chance that Erin had a seizure or was injured outside the bedroom. If the police decide to test the bottom bed sheet, we might have a better idea if that was likely what happened. If anyone out there that has any thing they want to share about this case I would certainly like to see it posted, specially someone local. The silence that has surrounded this case has been deafening.

[Indy Gal]

I too hope he gets a fair trial. This case threw me for a loop! If I was wrong about James I will say I'm sorry if he is found not guilty!


On another note. Indy how things going with you?? I'm back living in Indiana now over here in Richmond!!!
Going good!! Thanks for asking. Welcome home to the corn...LOL

[pooky169]

I hope they can get this case done and over with. I used to think James was guilty not I am not so sure. I just want this done and over with for Alexis so whatever happened to her mom can be dealt with accordingly. But after all of the posts I have read in here I am doubting James's involvement.
Prayers to everyone involved in this case and who have been posting in this thread that something good will come of this.

[SeriouslySearching]

This case has really been dragging on and on. I hope it to the benefit of James, if he indeed had nothing to do with either of their deaths. I suspect this is the case and it is hard to imagine him sitting in jail this long waiting.

[the bumblebug]

I too would be most surprised if he is found guilty. It has already been in jail 6 months and by the trial date it will be a year. I would suspect that the prosecutor has already thought about offering a lesser charge if he thought it would get this case off his desk. Nonetheless, it appears that the defense wants to proceed. I think this strongly suggest James was not responsible for Erin's death as he has claimed all along. Does anyone know if the judge has made a decision on bond for James? I have not heard. Also I heard that there was suppose to be a hearing on Alexis' situation but I have not seen anything in print.

[HAWG]

I wish the vey best for James, I hope he isnt guilty and he is a free man soon. If so then they should give some explanations of what happened to these girls. It will be interesting to see what they have to say if he is found not guilty.
I think they are stalling thinking something will turn up. If they had some solid evedence they would have tried it quicker.It just seems that is the way they work in that town. I have heard soo many diffrent opinions on this case that I dont they know what is going on LOL!!!
Ashley and the babies are doing well.They are prepareing to move into a bigger place. Haley wants to go swimming already and we had to let her feel the water because she didnt realize how cold it was now she knows it was so funny. She loves her new puppy.

Take care and best wishes

[MCDRAW]

I too would be most surprised if he is found guilty. It has already been in jail 6 months and by the trial date it will be a year. I would suspect that the prosecutor has already thought about offering a lesser charge if he thought it would get this case off his desk. Nonetheless, it appears that the defense wants to proceed. I think this strongly suggest James was not responsible for Erin's death as he has claimed all along. Does anyone know if the judge has made a decision on bond for James? I have not heard. Also I heard that there was suppose to be a hearing on Alexis' situation but I have not seen anything in print.


If James is not guilty, shouldn't he get his baby back? I wonder why they would have a hearing before the outcome of this case.

[the bumblebug]

HAWG
I heard that James was not granted bond. I suspect that has more to do with his circumstances than evidence. He has no work, no place to live and I imagine it would not be good for him to be out and have to put up with reporters that will certainly follow him around. At this stage of the game I imaging that the judge did what he thought was the right thing to do because of all the recent instances of people getting out on bond and committing other crimes. In this case I really don't think he is a flight risk nor a threat to anyone in particular. I remain concerned about the coroners findings with respect to both Erin's and Kelly's deaths. For the pathologist, the lead investigator and the coroner not to run a sexual assault kit, comb for fibers hairs etc. that might contain DNA or take scrapings from under Erin's fingernails is simple too difficult for me to understand. I suspect the defense will take some time to do their own testing on the bottom bed sheet and also to begin additional discovery to try to find out more about the players in this case. As I have stated from the beginning, this case will most likely be decided by the existing relationships that exist between the people associated with this case than by evidence. I believe we can all agree that thus far this appears to be the case. For HAWG say hello to Ashley for me and I certainly hope everything is going well with the new puppy. She deserves much happiness.

[the bumblebug]

HAWG
I heard that James was not granted bond. I suspect that has more to do with his circumstances than evidence. He has no work, no place to live and no place to hide from reporters that will certainly follow him around. At this stage of the game I imaging that the judge did what he thought was the right thing to do because of all the recent instances of people getting out on bond and committing other crimes. In this case I really don't think he is a flight risk nor a threat to anyone in particular. I remain concerned about the coroners findings with respect to both Erin's and Kelly's deaths. For the pathologist, the lead investigator and the coroner not to run a sexual assault kit, comb for fibers hairs etc. that might contain DNA or take scrapings from under Erin's fingernails is simple too difficult for me to understand. I suspect the defense will take some time to do their own testing on the bottom bed sheet and also to begin additional discovery to try to find out more about the players in this case. As I have stated from the beginning, this case will most likely be decided by understanding the relationships that exist between the people associated with this case than by evidence. I believe we can all agree that thus far this appears to somewhat true. For HAWG say hello to Ashley for me and I certainly hope everything is going well with the new puppy. She and her family deserve much happiness.

[FormerRichmondRes]

http://www.pal-item.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080425/UPDATES/80425013/1008/NEWS01

[the bumblebug]

On the Pal-Item forum there are a couple recent comments worth seeing regarding this case. FormerRichmondRes - Thanks for the posted link.

[SeriouslySearching]

I keep praying for James. In my mind, he doesn't have anything to do with what happened and he has been stripped of his life, his child, and people who used to love him. I cannot imagine a worse sentence than he has already served if he is indeed innocent of any crime against these women.

I might be wrong, but from the time we started this...I just had this nagging doubt that he was involved. From the evidence they have released...I am more confident he does not hold any responsibility for their deaths. I feel badly for this man. I think they need to clear him and let him go.

[the bumblebug]

Great Handle by the way. I think all of us familiar with this case are doing some serious searching about what has gone on with respect to this investigation. I don't recall so many things being handled so badly. I too want justice for those who deserve it and I hope the trial will occur sometime before October. In October, James will have been in jail for 1 year. I very much agree with you when you say this needs to get cleared up. I am still trying to figure out how anyone is going to get beyond reasonable doubt with all the obvious known shortcomings in the investigation.

[HAWG]

There is a good article in the PI today. The attorneys for James are wanting the sheets to be examined and have let everyone know the evidence was not collected properly if at all. I think this will open a whole new can of worms for James. I would like to here from Shipmen on this to see why this was not done in the first place. This will be interesting to see how they try to cover up there mistakes.

[the bumblebug]

to: HAWG
I saw the article and isn't it interesting that those discrepancies only showed up in the forum and not in the news stories. I think that says a great deal about this case. Believe me, the article doesn't even come close to pointing out the desparte nature of the investigation of this case. The day of the incident James was interviewed on tape for over an hour while the Stanley's were only asked seven or eight very short questions each. As I am sure you read in the article, the defense is strongly implying the investigation was insufficient to say the least. I could list most of the discrepancies but most have already been posted earlier.

[pooky169]

I seen that and made a comment on the PI about it. But with the new PI site it is taking some time to get used to the new format and posting.
I hope they can get their acts together on this case as James has waited long enough.
Hawg I am glad things are going ok for your daughter and grandchildren. And I am also glad it seems like you are trying to be objective when it comes to James I don't think this investigation has went well because of LE not doing a thorough job.
I just want whats best for Alexis and if he isn't guilty and is released he can have a life with her he at least deserves that.

[the bumblebug]

Pooky 169 and HAWG
First let me say that I think everyone knows how badly this case has been handled. I wonder if there is some point where someone will say that so much evidence has been lost or not collected that there is no way that his attorneys can prepare a proper defense. Also, I think we have to ask ourselves why so much evidence was not collected or lost and why. I know that there have been times when the truth from LE has been tough to come by. Let's hope we can all keep attention on this case so it doesn't get forgotten. Alexis should be the focal point of our concern...It's is important that she has a bright future to include her dad if he isn't guilty.

[the bumblebug]

Question for everyone out there. If James were guilty, why would the defense want the bottom sheet (the one police did not send out for testing) tested for forensics evidence DNA, Hairs, fiber, etc. Why risk finding something that might hurt his case. Just a thought.

[SeriouslySearching]

If the defense team is asking for it, I would have to assume they feel he is not guilty and want to provide additional proof of both: he was not there and someone else might have been.

[Chicogirl36]

Hi BB- I would think if the defense wanted the sheet, it would to prove that nothing out of the ordinary happened that night or or her sheets. Maybe it is to show that they had sex recently and could have died in her sleep afterwards? I dont feel that they are looking for someone else on them, I think they are looking for just the opposite. Nothing out of the ordinary of two young kids DNA should be found on it. IMO

[the bumblebug]

Chicogirl36.
Certainly if they had sex that evening it would go a long way towards dispelling any notion that Erin and James were not getting a long. I don't thing most people kill their partners after sex...we are not praying mantises you know. Additionally, had Erin actually died outside the room and somehow made it back to bed there might have been some DNA or other items like fibers etc. that might have transferred to the bottom sheet. Remember, Erin had a contusion on the side of her head as well as evidence that she had been strangled. Someone could have smacked her in such a way that she fell and hit her head on a piece of furniture etc. and died and then picked her up and placed her in the bed next to a sleeping James. In this case all types of things might have transferred. Let's not forget it's believe the Stanleys either threw out the blanket and top sheet or burned them. They also took the top mattress to the local dump about a month after her death. Needless the say the police did not ask them to preserve the mattress. I wondered if they looked at furniture in the house or molding etc. to see if their were blood spots. There is a lot more that I haven't posted but that it for now. This might end up being my last post for some time. It is probable that I may have the enter the hospital later this week and be out for an unknown period of time. Needless to say I hope someone will keep posting keeping an objective point of view and looking at the evidence. I did notice on the Paladium Item site that there was a post essentially saying they those either one or both of the parents were involved. I wasn't there so I can't say but I find it interesting that a comment like that has finally come out. Thanks for all the support on this site and keep me in your prayers over the next few days or weeks. Take care

[Chicogirl36]

Thanks for the clarification BB- I need to go back and read up- I dont remember anything about a cotusion on her head- i just remember the strangulation marks and bruising- My bad- I apologize for any confusion-

That does shed a different light- I was thinking even if they didnt have sex that night, they have in th past obviously,and we have learned from the Stiles case that DNA can stay on sheets after having been laundered. Let me back to your orig question after I re-read some posts from the beginning (I thought I knew all the details,...lol)

[the bumblebug]

Chicogirl36
There was a lot said in the bond hearing that never made it into the paper. I believe I either heard it or saw it somewhere where they did have sex that night. Assuming that were true, how would that affect your feeling about the case.

[Chicogirl36]

Chicogirl36
There was a lot said in the bond hearing that never made it into the paper. I believe I either heard it or saw it somewhere where they did have sex that night. Assuming that were true, how would that affect your feeling about the case.

If that is the prosecuting atty , I would say that they had rough sex, did that passing out/choking thing that people do during sex (sorry, dont know the name of it- but fairly popular, sadly), and it went too far. Ahh- I thinks its auto-erotic something? Anyways, I would say that maybe they got carried away during that and it went wrong- Mom and dad admittingly had quite a few drinks each that night and didnt hear a thing. IMHO, they were probably sleeping pretty well during it- also, the dog didnt bark, so that wouldnt set off any alarms- I know when my hubby and I were first married, when visiting my parents, we waited till they were good and sleepy till we did it, and I can still remember how scared I was to get caught...lol).

With that said, it sounds quite plausible that this could have happened. I was going to post a defense side, but I will probably do so in my closing sentences. The more I think about what I just said, it very well could be true. I did go back and couldnt find anything in the threads, but I couldnt find the autopsy report. I admit, i was a lil/lot dazed after looking thru this whole freaking forum, but I didnt see it. I swear, I wouldnt be surprised if that was mis-handled also.
As for defending it, I know its probably not legal, but maybe can argue down to manslaughter and say that it was sexually related. Im not sure how many cases like this have been tried/won, and wouldnt know the first place to look either, but Im sure there have been some, if not quite a few. Regardless the time of sex, the sheet WILL contain both of their DNA even if they didnt have sex THAT night- it would explain all the loose ends IMO (everyone getting along, parents 'passed out' from heavy drinking-didnt hear the sex btw, Erin prob didnt scream due to having sex next to parents room and waking the baby, no struggle (except if head contusion is correct,and with this PD, NOTHING surprises me any longer), dog not barking, no sign of outside intruder (who would NOT go into her room and be able to strangle her w/o James waking), etc,etc,etc.......
You know, it bothers me very much that this young man is jailed and CHARGED with such crime with the lack of evidence, and the evidence they do have, is so flimsy, Im surprised it has stood up this long-but is pretty much paper thin.
When you really think about it, as we have, its a travesty to both sides involved- I think its not right to charge him with what they have with what evidence they don't have. Dont need to repeat it all, we all are aware-unfortunately.
I think its sad for her family to have lost half of their family in less than a week. Poor baby Alexis will have learn about mommy and auntie from her grandparents- God bless her heart-Mom and Dad seemed to do well raising two nice girls who people had nothing but nice things to say about both of them. This whole case is horrible no matter which side of the fence you are on. I know James has a pretty rough past, but i hope he someone in his corner when/if he is ever released?

BB- I was just thinking- Is the bond hearing over yet? I havent heard, but at the same time, cant fathom the PI boards, and havent read there unless you direct me to a certain post :blowkiss: I want to also thank you for keeping this case going- There were so many people on it in the beginning, as we were all interested in this tragedy. You have devoted a lot of time and dedication, and I thank you for that- I appreciate you keeping us non-locals up to date on the local news/case details. Good luck on your project- Do you start now, or after the trial is over, btw- I understand if you cant answer/too personal- I apologize in advance, if so.

[the bumblebug]

Chicogirl36
1. I would recommend that you look at the last few days of posts in the Pal Item under forums which I think is now under comments and opinions.
2. There are no winners in this case. I found it very interesting thsat in the bond hearing neither Mr. or Mrs. Stanley had anything particularly bad to say about James. They said that they had talked with him earlier about making sure he had a job and could support his family. They even testified that the following evening that they were going to lend him their car so he could report to a new job he had just landed just across the line in Ohio. For this reason I don't think they would have been upsat about his job situation since he had just landed a new job.
3. Like you I am concerned about the charge. I think this was truly a rush to judgment because the prosecutor was getting heat from the public to arrest somebody. Regardless of what happened that night I feel pretty sure that he is either completely innocent or at least he has been charged with the wrong offense. If it were rough sex or an accident I would thing negligent homicide would have been the appropriate charge. If that had been the charge I image that he would have already been out of jail for time served. Since he is fighting the charge and still saying he is innocent, I can only presume that he didn't do it. I got a few day respect and don't have to go in for my heart cath until Monday. Take Care and I try to back with everyone after I get over whatever they are going to do to me.

[the bumblebug]

Chicogirl36. Yes the bond hearing is over. I will have to wait until I have heart surgery probably sometime this week or next before I can continue on the case study. While I am recuperating I hope to have a lot of time to examine the case from several different perspectives.

[Taximom]

bumblebug, I will keep you in my prayers! I hope everything goes well. Thank you for all the updates, especially with what you have going on in your personal life. :blowkiss:

[the bumblebug]

Thanks for the prayers. I'll try to keep up on the case as soon as I get home from the hospital. This case deserves a lot of attention especially with respect the the facts or lack thereof. I think it is quite telling that the Stanleys didn't have anything particularly bad to say about James. I also have a very difficult time believe Kelly's death was a result of seizures. I wonder if the police checked the house to see if the small contusion on Erin's head left a mark that could be matched to a particular piece of furniture in the household. I understand that jury selection starts June 11th but I doubt I will be able to attend so close to the time I expect to be out of the hospital. I would appreciate it if HAWG or some other local resident would attend so they could keep us all up to date. Hope to see you soon

[HAWG]

I am going to try to make it to the jury trial but I have alot of extras going on right now and I will try to keep everyone informed as much as possible, You are right this case deserves alot of attention especially since they have not done a good job so far.
Bumblebug, I wish you well and a speedy recovery. I will let Ashley know what is going on Im sure she will send her prayers. See you soon!!!

[the bumblebug]

HAWG
Thanks so much for posting the above comment. The surgery will be in about two weeks because they want me to participate in a very important clinical study that few people fit the parameters for. I don't know whether the 14 day wait is good or bad but if it will help someone later and I am in a position to do it since I am semi-retired then I guess I should do it Thanks for telling Ashley and I hope she and her new family are doing well. Someday, I would like to see a picture of Haley if you can post one. The last time I saw her she was between the twilight zone and a nap. I think you know that all in all I have tried to be fair with my post but of course I am concerned about James getting a fair deal. Local law enforcement's inability to collect evidence, test it, process it or accurately report it has me more than confused. I just hope something shows up that clearly demonstrates what happened either way. HAWG what is your sense of the mood in Richmond, Centerville, Cambridge City and Wayne
County in general. Is pretty much everyone getting tired of this case. I know I am.
Take Care and I'll try to learn as much as I can within the next two weeks and get it posted. thanks Again

[HAWG]

bumblebug
I was involved in a drunk driving accident in Richmond in 91 and the drunk driver only served 6 hours in jail and was released he was sentenced to 8 months on house arrest and it was a vehicular man slaughter. It was a good friend of mine and I dont think justice was served at all. I moved away in 2000 and I really dont go home much because of gas prices and not much left there for me other than family on the holidays. From what I have gathered it hasent changed much. LOL I think the people are some what angery about it and the way it was investigated. My Mom had told me that alot of people have commented on the way it was handeld.
Best wishes to you and to James. I will see what I can do about the pictures.

[the bumblebug]

Thanks for you kind response. I fully understand that you would not want to post pictures of Haley on the net. I hope I didn't leave that impression that I wanted you to post them. I suppose for the next 14 days I will be trying to understand this case better. Often, I ask myself how we got here. I do not want anything but justice in this matter. If someone commits a crime I think they should be convicted on evidence and not a hunch. Also if they did something wrong I think it is reasonable to expect that the individual be tried for the right crime. I believe James was arrest and charged for strangling Erin when many still believed that two sisters and been killed within six days of each other and a serial killer was on the loose. In reality, as it has turned out we don't have two sisters dead from similar causes as the papers said early on. We have one young woman dead and I believe most most people feel there is a lot of doubt as to what happened. This whole matter needs to be reexamined in a different light. I think only then will be get at the truth.

[Chicogirl36]

Bumblebug-
Please do all you can to try and forget this case for the next couple weeks and concentrate on your recovery. I didnt realize it was so soon. I wish you well my friend :blowkiss:. I know you have a lot of time invested in this case, but you have even more invested in yourself.

You will have all the time in the world to contemplate the facts later-

Take care of yourself- God Bless

Chicogirl36 :)

[pooky169]

Best wishes to you Bumblebug on your surgery and recovery. You are doing a great service here and trying to help this case.
You take care of yourself and we can handle it til you return!!!!
Prayers for you!!!

[Littledeer]

Bumblebug:

Adding my prayers also for a successful surgery and a rapid recovery!!! Right now, you are the most important.

I'm sure HAWG can keep us updated and pooky and others will see that this case does not die away.

Take care and wishing you the best!!! :blowkiss:

[the bumblebug]

Thanks to all for the kind words and best wishes. Actually, when one finds himself with ill health a lot of things come into better perspective. My first battle with ill health was 19 years ago. There is an old saying that "there is something wrong in Denmark" (I suspect from Hamlet) that truly applies to this case. The lead investigator said the defendant was arrested because it was just common sense. It just might turn out that "common sense" as applied to the nature and magnitude of the investigation might set the defendant free. The uneven treatment of the defendant in this case as compared to other potential suspects might reveal a bias so great that a true defense is being denied to the defendant. Just another thought for everyone to ponder. If Kelly thought James killed Erin why is there no documentation of an interview with her that validates her beliefs as to who killed Erin. This leads me to believe that Kelly did not believe Erin was killed by the defendant. I suspect that Kelly told someone that she thought James was not responsible and that there is evidence out there that confirms her belief. I think I see a Perry Mason moment coming here. Tune in again...same bat time....same bat place

[miss_vegemite]

bumblebug - i want to wish you the very best of luck for your upcoming surgery and good health afterwards.

Also, thanks for keeping us updated regularly.

[the bumblebug]

Because of the study I mentioned earlier, the surgery is now scheduled for June 3rd. Any thoughts on my comments in my last posting. If the rationale is faulty please let me know. I am willing to examine any and all ideas about this case. Take care and I'll keep digging for the next week or so.

[SewingDeb]

Bumblebug, wishing you a successful surgery and speedy recovery.

This case is still a mystery to me. You made a good point about there being no statements from Kelly saying she believed he killed her sister.

[the bumblebug]

SewingDeb

It makes you wonder about what other potential pieces of evidence might have been missed or pitched. During an investigation, it is just standard practice to document every interview in case the witness later has an accident or just passes away. Thanks for your well wishes also.

[the bumblebug]

Today, I looked at a letter that contained the following: "I will be glad when this nightmare is over. I'm still in a state of shock over everything . Still can't believe I'm in here for something I didn't do." "....In the court at my trial when I walk out I will know in my heart I never did anything wrong to that girl or her family."

I certainly hope that this case is handled justly. These comments do not sound to me like they came from someone who was guilty.

[miss_vegemite]

Today, I looked at a letter that contained the following: "I will be glad when this nightmare is over. I'm still in a state of shock over everything . Still can't believe I'm in here for something I didn't do." "....In the court at my trial when I walk out I will know in my heart I never did anything wrong to that girl or her family."

I certainly hope that this case is handled justly. These comments do not sound to me like they came from someone who was guilty.

bumblebug - I can't remember a letter. I've fallen a bit behind in this thread, so may have missed it. Has it been posted here?

[the bumblebug]

Miss vegemite
The letter is just a few days old. It is a personal letter and is not part of the case. Nonetheless it certainly demonstrates that he has not changed his story. I also understand that at his own request he is isolated and not in the jails general population.
I guess he wants to make sure that nothing that could happen in jail is going to occur. Sounds smart to me. I know the jail has to sometimes have more that one visitation session when they think there might be a confrontation in the inmates area of the visitation section.
Hope that explains things a bit.

[miss_vegemite]

Miss vegemite
The letter is just a few days old. It is a personal letter and is not part of the case. Nonetheless it certainly demonstrates that he has not changed his story. I also understand that at his own request he is isolated and not in the jails general population.
I guess he wants to make sure that nothing that could happen in jail is going to occur. Sounds smart to me. I know the jail has to sometimes have more that one visitation session when they think there might be a confrontation in the inmates area of the visitation section.
Hope that explains things a bit.
Thanks for explaining that bumblebug. Do you have any idea what Jame's thoughts are on Erin dying? He must have his own theory.

[the bumblebug]

I don't think it advisable to try to explain someone thoughts on who killed Erin. As I understand it there were four people in the house (James, Erin, Lonny, and Dale). Additionally, there was one other person who had a key to the house and that of course would have been Kelly.(Erin's younger sister). We also know that one door had a bad lock but to get to that door one would have to have already entered through one of two other doors that apparently did not have bad locks. That does not mean that someone could not have entered one of those doors earlier and waited until later to enter the house. We also know that everyone in the house said that there had been no threats of any kind nor violence in the house that evening. Also we know that neither Dale nor Lonnie Stanley said anything suggesting James had any responsibility for Erin's death during his bond hearing. We also know that James was given the Baby (Alexis) to take of when Lonny and Dale went to the hospital to check on ?Erin. The bottom line is that the only possibilities as far as suspects goes appear to be (1) an intruder, (2) Dale, (3) Lonnie (4) James or (5) Kelly had she decided to return to the house for sonme reason. We know that Dale and Lonnie were observed drinking the night before Erin's death at the Brown Jug tavern and we know that Dale was described as being angry that James returned with Erin and the baby (Alexis) earlier in the day. We know that Mrs Stanley was sleeping down the hall in another room and Dale said he was sleeping directly across from James and Erin's bedroom door. We know that James woke up at 5:15 or so and he said that when he tried to get Erin up because of the baby crying he notice that the bed sheet was wet and that Erin was having difficulty breathing. Lastly we know that James had already found a new job and was scheduled to begin that job the following evening