Chapter 16 - The mixed verdict
The jury convicted Judith of assault.
They acquitted the more serious reckless-endangerment count requiring a particular level of recklessness/intent the jury did not unanimously find proven.
Why?
The evidence showed intentional unwanted force.
It did not prove beyond reasonable doubt that Judith intended or consciously disregarded the precise risk of sending me down an entire staircase to the degree required for the higher charge.
Leah was furious.
“She pushed you down stairs.”
“Yes.”
“She could have killed you.”
“Yes.”
“But acquitted?”
“On that count.”
Mixed verdicts are not moral rankings.
They are elements.
Then sentencing delayed.
My protection order remained.
Judith left courthouse.
No jail immediately.
No reporters screaming.
Just an older woman walking beside her attorney.
Graham stood across the hall.
He did not approach her.
May you like
He did not approach me.
That was appropriate.
