Hi all. So many thoughts after finally catching up. I apologize for writing a book on here. For the record, I believe PR is guilty of rape and causing Libby’s death. I hope he stays behind bars. With that said, I have some things to share. My opinion may not be a popular one, but I believe it’s important. It’s not meant to attack, upset, or offend anyone, so if it does, please know it’s not my intention and then “scroll and roll”.
First, in regards to some thinking he may be mentally ill and others saying no way because he couldn’t stand trial if so... He could have a mental illness AND stand trial. There is a huge difference between mentally ill and insane (which would be cause for the insanity plea where there would still be a trial but a diminished charge and sentence possibility). I have depression and anxiety so I’m technically mentally ill. However, there is absolutely no way I wouldn’t be held fully responsible for any of my actions. I would never do anything like this of course, but even if I did, I know the difference between right and wrong and would therefore stand trial as any other person would. It’s possible to be mentally ill without reduced responsibility. Addiction is a mental illness, but doesn’t reduce responsibility. For example, an alcoholic is mentally ill and needs help. But no one would argue and say “They’re an alcoholic. It’s not their fault they drove drunk and killed a family. You can’t charge them!” I believe it is the same with PR. He shows signs of a sexual addiction and psychopathic tendencies (mental illnesses) but appears fully aware of right and wrong actions which means he deserves no leniency in trial.
Now, in regards to being found guilty. I’m in forensics. I understand evidence and trials. The prosecution has used EVIDENCE TO PROVE that PR raped LS. But, at this point, with what WE have heard and seen from the trial, they have not provided evidence to PROVE beyond reasonable doubt that he murdered her. You must remember that we here at WS have had the privilege of analyzing and following this case from the beginning. We have read tons of articles. People have been amazing and sleuthed the park and river. It’s been great, and it’s the reason I truly believe he is guilty. BUT, the jurors have had no such luxury. They are only allowed to consider the evidence and testimony provided in court. Of course, we may not have seen or heard exactly everything from court that they have, so maybe there is enough. But based only on what has been reported by the media, the prosecution has not, at this time, provided enough proof beyond reasonable doubt that PR is guilty of murder. It’s easy to get caught up in our feelings and opinions and all the info we have and say he is definitely guilty. Heaven help us if courts ever allow juries to convict on “feelings” though. Remember, they can only consider what is said and shown in court. Nothing else they may have seen and heard along the way. In fact, they try to find juries with little knowledge of the case and they are instructed not to research it as it creates a bias and a reason for appeals and mistrials. So, if I was a juror, based on what we have seen from court, I would bot be willing to convict him of murder right now. I would however have zero issue finding him guilty of negligent homicide or manslaughter.
Just my opinion. Congrats if you made it to the end of this!
