Noah Arenstein, "a lawyer writing for change.org," has written on the Tonya Craft trial, calling it "
A Travesty of Justice in Northern Georgia." He jumps right into the heart of this case, noting that it involves misconduct on behalf of the prosecutors and the judge:
At this point, Craft's trial has devolved into a ludicrous, back-and-forth character assassination of everyone involved. Prosecutors Chris Arnt and Len Gregor, in particular, have asked lurid and wholly irrelevant questions about Craft’s sexual history, while her attorneys have been barred from introducing evidence of Craft’s good character.
It gets better:
Craft’s trial has also seen a parade of so-called forensics experts act as effective cheerleaders for the prosecution. One expert who made an appearance, Holly Nave Kittle of the Children's Advocacy Center, was openly hostile to questions about her lack of credentials and was unfamiliar with any relevant child abuse literature. Neither did she help her credibility as a witness after she “liked” a public Facebook post by Arnt, in which he wondered “if Tonya Craft’s Defense [sic] lawyers are really insane of [sic] just trying to jack up her defense bill?” (Both Arnt and Kittle’s conduct likely violate Georgia's ethical rules.)
Another prosecution “expert” involved, Suzie Thorne, lacks a college degree, and her testimony seems highly suspect. When Thorne interviewed one of the children involved during a videotaped session, she asked the girl a whopping 16 times whether “anything else happened.” Each time, the child said no. However, Thorne testified that after she shut off the camera, the child left the room and then returned — suddenly remembering that yes, Craft had sexually abused her.
Fair enough. But then why didn't Thorne record this statement, or press the child for more information on camera?
We should also remember that — as a third prosecution expert testified — both children and adults are "equally susceptible to suggestion,” which you should keep in mind the next time your child asks about Santa Claus, the Boogeyman or the Tooth Fairy.
As I see it, there is a better chance that there is a Tooth Fairy than Tonya Craft is a child molester. Unfortunately, she is in a courtroom being run by men who molest the law.
146 comments:
As the "living charges" transform daily, the media interest is growing also.
A fine post.
Earlier this evening, while driving back home from sending my wife off to see our daughter, I pondered how I would feel in Tonya's shoes.
I found myself thinking about the famous line attributed to Isoroku Yamamoto in the movie Tora, Tora, Tora.
"I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant, and filled him with a terrible resolve."
Then I wondered if Arnt, Gregor and House were having similar thoughts tonight...
Somehow that improved my mood.
I've seen no evidence that Tonya Craft is guilty. I believe she is innocent and that SHE is the victim of abuse at the hands of the men running this trial. Men who hold positions of power, and men who should be protecting the rights of all people -- men who know better, but who are apparently caught up in ego or power trips and who want to WIN rather than do the right thing.
Bullies, molesters, abusers come in many forms -- some are parents, some are preachers or politicians --we've all seen them and have been disappointed. We're watching some bullies in action in the courtroom in this trial.
I believe Tonya is a victim -- I pray that they haven't rigged the jury in some way too, and that the fix is already in.
Found this new blog on the subject: http://harfordmedlegal.typepad.com/forensics_talk/2010/04/-child-sexual-abuse-part-i-tonya-craft-trial-is-no-duke-case.html
I don't agree with this person's assessment and actually suspected it could be an attempt by the prosecution to counter Anderson's blog, but thought some here might be interested.
If these parents REALLY care about their children they would not have put them in this situation. And by situation I mean the pressuring interviews that were made to squeeze the answer the parent and prosecution were looking for out of these impressionable children. And by getting on the stand in front of all these people and having to tell this fabricated story so that your parents will be happy. Now if Tonya is convicted more then likely she will receive another trial in which these children will have to come back and do the smae thing all over again. To mee the parents of these children are doing more harm to them maybe they should be taken away from their parents. I see nothing good coming out of any of this. The children are the real sufferers. Shame on you prosecutors and judge AND parents!
I have seen no evidence or facts that prove Tonyas innocence either! I don't consider "ive known her my whole life and I know she's not capable of this" a fact you are crazy. The parents have NOT fabricated these stories for their children to tell and to suggest that is absolutely ludicrous! This world really is full of ignorant/naive people such as all who are pro Tonya! The accusers have no reason to lie and nothing to gain...on the other hand Tonya could lose her freedom for the rest of her life as she should for what she has done. Someone has to stand up for these innocent kids that are being slandered!!
Anon 1:47am. This person is so confident in their site they won't even mention their full name. What a joke.
Finally - a real expert in their field of study writes an unbiased article on this case!!!
THANKS ANON 1:47!
Wild Bill, can you link to the blog you wrote a few months ago about hating prosecutors? I think that may help people understand where you are coming from.
I have to hand it to you though, most of the news affiliates are following you like 'the pied piper'
Looks like someone struck a nerve with ANON 7:17. Hurry now and get to the courtroom and you sit right behind the prosecution and AMEN them every chance you get. You are the ignorant one. And yes the children are innocent but their ignorant parents are not.
To anon 1:47
Thank you for sharing that link. I read the blog and find it very intersting. Although I respect her for defending her profession, I have a hard time with her passionately defending individuals she does not know.
I found the following points particularly interesting:
"She has testified 15 times. Considering how rare it is for forensic nurses to actually testify, due to last minute plea agreements, that is significant testimony experience. She was accepted as an expert witness by the court."
This statement alone gives substance to the belief that the prosecutors in this area convict innocent people using this "expert" witness.
"We are, however, subpoenaed as "witnesses for the state." Even so, we are still required, by mandatory guidelines and protocols, to be completely objective. In my opinion, all the hoopla over this statement, is just that - and making a mountain out of a mole hill."
I very much like this second sentence that is very well stated. I would love to see the mandatory guidelines. But, most importantly, I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THIS BLOGGER KNOWS THAT SHARON HAS PROCLAIMED TONYA'S GUILT FROM THE BEGINNING!!! For this reason, she should be careful what individuals she passionately defends for the sake of her professional reputation.
Anon @ 7:19
This is from the 'About' section of
http://harfordmedlegal.typepad.com/forensics_talk/2010/04/-child-sexual-abuse-part-i-tonya-craft-trial-is-no-duke-case.html
---
Biography
Hi, I'm Kathleen. I'm a forensic nurse with 35 years of clinical nursing experience, along with paralegal training, health care fraud, document tampering, criminalistics and Medico-legal Death Investigation training.
Former founder & Director BRBC Community Outreach program. Former Medical Board investigator. Member Assoc. of Certified Fraud Examiners.
Independent Forensic & Legal Nurse Consultant.
----
I know most people that read Wild Bills blog are not used to doing their own research (or thinking for that matter) on an issue, so I thought I might help you out.
You people need to snap out of it. I hope more unbiased reporting will come in as more unbiased (hopefully) news agencies get involved. Maybe what will be exposed in all of this is how terrible news outlets like WGOW and WRCB are. Channel 9 is the only local affiliate that is doing a decent job with this case.
And before you thank me - Your Welcome! :)
Don't worry anon 7:33 - NO ONE is going to thank you so need for the snarkyness - grow up.
Anon 7::17. First of all, it's you're welcome, as in you are welcome. Good grammar will make your point much more believable. That's the writer in me coming out. Secondly, a person who claims she is an experienced SANE and proclaims a suspect's guilt before an exam is not a professional in this field. One of their jobs is to report the truth, no matter what side of the trial they end up helping, even though they are called as a state witness. No I am not a medical professional, just a parent who went through much the same thing and needed 9 long years to learn the truth, my kids lied for something they wanted. And I have regretted pushing for a trial ever since learning that. But what made me support Tonya Craft is a simple fact. She taught kindergarten for many years. Yet, no other people have come forward to say their kids or they were molested by her. There has been no life changing incident mentioned in her life to make her have done this. Nothing. Just the words of three little girls who had to be coaxed and then only admitted the alleged molestation after going off camera. That alone should make anyone wonder as to the truth of the matter.
To the 1:47
Actually, the person who did that post is Kathleen Eckelt, a SANE in Maryland who did help the attorneys in the Duke case land an excellent expert witness in Dr. Ann Burgess, the founder of the SANE program.
The post does not surprise me, in that it is pretty classic Kathleen.
As for the 7:24, are you saying that Dr. Nancy Fajman, who is an internationally-recognized expert has nothing to say?
I did not say I "hated" prosecutors, but rather that I don't trust them. American prosecutors have a long history of dishonest behavior and it is getting worse. Because they don't have to worry about being accountable to anyone, they have stepped over the line many times.
Yes, Channel 9 is doing a wonderful job....of continuing the "guilty regardless of evidence" mantra. As I've said several times, whether one believes Tonya Craft is guilty or not, the prosecution team has played dirty at every turn. They haven't offered credible witnesses or any real evidence. Guilty or innocent, Tonya Craft isn't getting a fair trial and in this country, we are all supposed to be afforded that. I find it interesting that those offering comments in support of the "home team" offer nothing new to support their contention that the accused is guilty. They slam the masses and media who support Tonya for daring to disagree with the almighty, all-knowing "experts" and prosecutors. It seems like the Child Advocacy Center, the DAs office, and even Judge House have made it their mission to rid Catoosa County of all ACCUSED child molesters, regardless of innocence or guilt. That should scare us all.
Hello Kathleen,
Please comment on the Anon 7:31 post. Do you know Sharon Anderson and Dr. Jean Carmichael? Are you willing to put your professional reputation on the line for people you are not familiar with on a professional level?
Anon 7:17
Even though you may not have seen any evidence that Tonya is innocent, she does not have to prove her innocence. It is the State's challenge to show her guilt. I do not care which side of the fence that you are sitting on, the state has not proved anything other than how they can break the law.
Hello Kathleen,
Please comment on the Anon 7:31 post. Do you know Sharon Anderson and Dr. Jean Carmichael? Are you willing to put your professional reputation on the line for people you are not familiar with on a professional level?
You are right KC, but I never said she was guilty or innocent. I just hate the fact that everyone here is trashing the process and the people involved for doing their jobs!
Like an earlier poster pointed out, can you imagine the outcry if the state didn't conduct this trial after she was indicted by the Grand Jury??
There certainly would be protest, then!
The prosecutors have been vigorous, and there have been some minor mistakes made, but it's not like the pied piper Wild Bill is trying to twist it up to be! He is a self proclaimed hot head, non-expert, prosecutor hater! Read some of his other blogs/post! He makes his living twisting this sort of thing up! He feeds off of it!(this criticism is based on what HE has said about himself in past blogs!) If you don't believe me look how much time he has given to his "job" since this trial started - for evidence of that check his other blog.
I can respect that you think Tonya is not guilty - if she is, then I hope she is freed. But I don't agree with how people are spinning this when they don't have all the information.
For instance, yesterday when the Judge did the defense a favor by allowing the expert who the prosecution had not been privy too - people flipped out - they didn't understand that he was helping them!
And yes, sometimes prosecutors yell and scream. That's life! It doesn't mean we need to have a mistrial.
Just let the system work, and cease the character assassination when you probably don't know what you are talking about. Do you know for a fact the Judge never met with the defense to discuss the supposed ex parte conversation?
There are a few very biased people like Wild Bill who are egging on the media and others and stirring up trouble.
Also, when it comes to the news - controversy is what they thrive on. I believe WGOW and WRCB understand that and are trying to drum some controversy. Real journalist don't do that, they present both sides and let the reader/viewer make their own decision.
Mob Rule is never a good idea!!
Thanks for the spelling tip!
You're Welcome!
I work with Sharon Anderson - she has told everybody at work she thinks Ms. Craft is guilty. Why would an experienced and professional person be talking about this at work? I will tell you why - she is an insecure person and she likes to gossip and tell her "professional" stories to look and feel important. She is nothing but a gossip !!!!
Actually, Anon 7:33, it appears opposite your claim! The people reading and commenting on this blog seem to be very intelligent people who are familiar with researching various topics. In fact, I think it would be very interesting to conduct a study to compare the education level of the people supporting and opposing one side or the other. My hypothesis is that there is a much higher educational and professional level supporting the defense side. (oops! I doubt you know what that word means. Hypothesis=educated guess.)
It's ironic that the Today Show ran a story about 'cyber bullying' this morning and how those kids are being prosecuted for it.
Mr. Anderson, you should watch that story.
And we wonder where our kids get it.
:(
Kathleen, I have personal experience with these same prosecutors and yes liars. I know for a fact that they lie and will do whatever to get a conviction. If the state wants to win, then their witnesses should have credentials to match their claims and they should act professionally on the stand. I'm sorry, rolling eyes, being rude and beligerant to the defense attorneys is not professional. Susie Thorn doesn't even have a college degree, what kind of expert does that make her? Stacy Long said so what when asked if about suggesting things to these children. I have seen her work first hand too. She leads the children in what she wants them to say.
You are right about one thing, mob rule is never a good idea and it is about time the Mob Rule of the DA's office in Catoosa County is shut down!!!
All this trial is proving is that if you dislike someone bad enough that you can fabricate lies get others to go along with you and then have the state back you. Thus forth creating a guilty verdict way before a trial starts. And you can forget about a fair trial. It is VERY scarey and disturbing. I have to really watch myself around other children - some kind gesture can land you in jail.
Yes, it is true that Sharon Anderson speaks of this case often at work and will tell anybody that will listen that she is guilty. This has been going on since the investigation began.
Here's a question. Has Kathleen actually seen the evidence in question? I have a sneaky feeling Kathleen was "sucked" into this by the prosecution.
Even so, I would hardly compare her to Dr. Fajman. In fact, there is a reason you have nurses and doctors. Normally because doctors surpass nurses in medical knowledge.
All this lady is doing is trying to protect the shattered image of the SANE nurse. Anyone who goes into an investigation with a mindset of immediately guilt will normally slant their results to meet their objectives.
I think all most people wanted to see was a fair trial with due process, instead of something that looks like a Saturday Night Live skit from the judge and his ada buddies. BTW...where's the DA on this one? Staying away so he can denounce these buffoons when they are disbarred?
The "expert" witness discussing the case at work should demonstrate to the prosecution and her supporters that she isn't qualified for her position. This behavior definitely demonstrates her lack of professional ethics. Everyone at work received explicit details as soon as the exams were complete. We at work knew Ms. Craft was going to be arrested and charged before she did. It is sad this person is referred to as an expert. She is a disgrace to the SANE program and the Children's Advocacy Center. She should be ashamed.
Pool room taking bets on who #TonyaCraft jury foreman will be. Maybe the heavyset woman who sleeps all day?
Anon 8:25, you have said what I have been saying all along. If we were able to do research on the education of everyone on here, we would find that we, as in the supporters of TC, are far more educated, are capable of doing enormous amounts of research and can be productive in this little thing we call society. It truly frightens me how some of these people think. Something else I find interesting, they are all coming to channel 9's defense. Channel 9 is the most liberal station in the area. The majority of their stories are based on rumor & unsubstantied claims. I know this because their main reporter is a life-long friend of my husband's. They have very strong difference of opinions & the only thing that really keeps their friendship going is football. Sad, but true. I find it funny that they are the only ones reporting different information from the courtroom.
I'm going to pray for all of these people who seem to think that we are "followers" of Bill. Thank God I was given a mind of my own & know how to use it. Unfortunately for those people, they do not think for themselves. They have a husband or a wife feeding them information, and they take that as fact.
May God have mercy on their souls when Judgement Day comes.
Close your laptops prosecution, it's time for Kangaroo Court to start.
Editorial cartoon depicting the trial of Tonya Craft.
I love this!
http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2010/apr/28/tonya-craft-trial/
to ANON 7:17
Good Morning Mrs. Lamb and Mrs Wilson glad you could join the blog today. BTW if it was you being unjustly prosecuted do you think these two "ministers of justice"would give you a fair trial? Anybody in any circumstance could go to jail in this county. What they do to others they can also do to you. Call the judge and ask him if you don't believe me. But try to keep the conversation under an hour.
To Anon 9:02,
This was a tweet from Melydia Clewell left just moments ago on Twitter. You should credit this to her in your post.
I went to the courthouse yesterday to see this circus 1st hand. It is trully a kangaroo court. I am glad the baliff did'nt see me "not rise" for the honarable Judge Outhouse. They probaly would have thrown me in jail.
Also the high and mighty Sheriff Phil "drug kingpin of Catoosa County" Summers had to make his presence in the court room.
That's it Mob! Lets keep assassinating the character of the people involved! That will prove Tonya is innocent! Good one, Jason! LOL! Like Bill, we can just claim martyrdom if anyone calls us on it! Yeah for us! WE ARE AWESOME - how could anyone associated with us be guilty of anything?
Yeah, YOU ARE AWESOME, YOU'RE THE MAN TOO, HUH?
9:33 - We are not assasinating their character...they are doing that themselves, because evidently their character was in question to begin with. Do you not realize that the state has NOT proven that any molestation has occurred? Do you have your head that far in the sand? I do NOT know Tonya Craft or any players in the trial. What do you base your defense of the prosecution on? You guys want to bash us, but what is the basis?
anon 9:33,
I think you meant "Yea for us", not "yeah for us". Once again, you silly, silly goose, please learn the proper meanings & spelling of words before you post a comment. It makes it more sincere & might make us look at it as intelligent debate rather than, well, I will keep it nice.
If we are a "mob", than it is a mob for justice. So call us what you will if it makes you feel funny, but as I said, come at me or any other supporters of justice with some intelligence, evidence, facts, hell, right now, even really believable lies, and any of us would probably be more than happy to debate you. :-)
is accusser 2 tonya's dtr? or accusser 1?
I do not mean this in a negative way at all. I think we all know this to be true and have probably thought it numerous times: Too bad Tonya is not a minority. The media and minority groups would be all over it. This is not about race, I know that, BUT if she were a minority they could use that card to get attention of the media and big groups and that would help expose this mess! I really think House, Arnt and Gregor thought they could railroad this middle class, white, kindergarten teacher and no one notice. I guarantee if it were a minority they would have thought twice because big groups would support/defend!
With all due respect to minorities I do not mean any of this in a negative way. I hate that the world has turned into this and that we have to think this way anyway.
I've assumed it's #2... Don't quote me though.
Tonya's daughter was accuser #3. Accuser #1 is the child actress.
yea, i figured out its not #1, thats the "actor". thanks!
thanks denise...
If Sharon Anderson is talking about this at work, is that not a Hippa violation?? Shouldn't she be reported???
Also, it might be of interest that Holly Kittle is FB friends with Donna Bomar whose husband is indeed a convicted child molestor, now out on probation. They are not suppose to have a computer at home, but they do and I would bet my life, he uses her page to troll for children. Those of you who have her as a friend, hope you like knowing a convicted sex offender, one who really did molest children, is looking at the sweet pictures of your children.
i mean actress...thanks denise for clarifing for me! her dtr is a doll. i saw pics of her on facebook. so sad. i only saw about 8 pics, they all are cute...except 2 of them her eyes looked very heavy and sad. i hate what these "adults" are doing to the children.
Feel's weird even calling Tonya's daughter an 'Accuser'.. It's more like 'Brainwashed #3'... Poor kids. And in an earlier post I'd assume was from Lamb, Wilson or 'Holier Than Thou' Sarah Bass Henke about someone having to stand up for the slandered kids... OH SPARE ME! NO ONE has slandered those innocent children! I personally feel terribly sorry for them and wonder how much damage all of this will do in their lives.
Remember Crazy Mama's and STEP Mother- What goes up must come down!!!!!
From Tandt - if we are a "mob", than it is a mob for justice.
huh?
did you mean if we are a mob, we are for injustice rather than justice?
Yeah, sorry I can't understand your sentence...
☆ yeah (ya, ye)
adverb, interjection
INFORMAL yes: an affirmative reply
Keep up the good work, Mob!
How much more tasteless can this get? Now we have Len "The Man" Gregor talking about himself and his personal life to a witness, and when the Defense objects, Ringmaster House overrules, and says he is on cross, and he can address the witness...
from wrcbtv.com
"Defense objects to Gregor continuing to use his personal experiences while asking questions. Judge says "he's on cross" and allows it.
Defense finished. ADA Len Gregor now asking questions. He starts by sharing information about his family."
Somebody, please step in and stop this madness!!! I have never heard of anything like this in my life!!!!
The largest "slanderer" of these poor children would be thier own parents for not providing age appropriate treatment and care. Really, I could not imagine acting the manner these parents have testified to with my children. Also, I thought some one was molesting my child (as they allege they did), there would be no talking among other people before I sought care for my child. If any thing, the individual would be lucky if they were able to stand once I was done.
Anon @ 10:10 people like you and your ring leader Wild Bill and the others slandering these CHILDREN are exactly why the one father didn't want his kid to go through the trial.
Wake Up!
Oh 10:10, you know that's not what you meant. You meant yea, as in, noun, meaning an affirmation. In the texting world, some people just right "yay", that way they won't get the spellings and meanings confused. Yeah, is more like, heck yeah, you need to learn proper English and grammer.
A mob for "injustice", is your husband or wife who works for the county feeding you your lines, or is it another family member. Look at the facts & then let's debate. Your diatribe is getting boring!
Wow! I have gotten more out of reading the comments than the actual post!
Tonya's guilt is to be decided by a jury of her peers and the jury needs to be able to make a clear choice. Do you sit at home and watch reality TV and wonder 'Don't you see what they are doing!' and inevitably someone makes a horrid mistake or votes off a person they shouldn't have because they don't see what we see. Here we are, in the real world being fed information from many different sources. Someone says channel 9 is doing a great job (slanting towards the prosecution) while the other channels are not (maybe giving more of a middle ground approach?). All I have to say to Judge House is -let the jury hear the information. Why block the defense team from entering evidence but allow the prosecution to feast from a buffet? Has the prosecution been blocked from presenting evidence? If they have I want to know. And I want to know because I personally like having both sides presented in an unbiased manner so I can have an opinion that is educated. I believe most of us are just on the side of truth in this matter and Tonya just happens to be the name put on so many injustices in this country. A fair trial, is that too much to ask for? Oh, and Brian, don't be afraid of the defense teams evidence. Go ahead, let it in. Let the jury make a good decision in the end. It seems that would make you look fantastic when running for re-election! ~Rachel Noble www.facebook.com/chattanoogafamily
Are they having a break in court Anon 10:19? Is that why you've had this opportunity to comment? Give it up! You all look ridiculous and it sounds to me and I'd say 99% of the REASONABLE thinking people in this world that the dad didn't want any part b/c he didn't believe it! I'm sure he wants to be supportive of his child that has been brainwashed but at the same time he has a conscience and wont bear false witness to an innocent woman! Kudos to that SMART, KIND, Man with a HEART!
Anon 10:02 Keeping it in perspective, These are the same prosecutors that tried Eddie that are now trying Ms. Craft...
I don't know who you are, but I do know Eddie and Donna, and there was a whole lot of wrong in that deal too!!! Rather than go to trial, and risk being put away for life, Ed took the advise of his attorney, and chose to plead out so that one day he would be able to see the light of day outside of a prison. That case all came back again to parents from a church that had a vendetta against someone, and used their children to get back at them. Funny thing that both of Eddie's boys and his wife were there when the supposed "touching" took place. And all three still believe in and support Eddie. Donna is a stand-up retired Catoosa County educator, and now county employee, and to me her character is without question!!! You need to check your facts.
Tandt -
Heck Yeah as in Heck Yes -which is the ultimate affirmation - thanks for making my point!
Rachel - look at how the judge Allowed the Defense witness yesterday that he should of thrown out. Even the mob admitted that.
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kbp said...
The defense actually got away with a little by not having a summary for what their expert would testify to. Both sides have to do that.
The state probably knew what was coming, but they were due that summary.
It actually was a surprise to me that the witness was allowed to testify today.
---
There have been some minor mistakes, but NOTHING like what this Mob led by Prosecutor Hater Wild Bill is painting.
By the way, I agree with you! If she is innocent I want her free - If she is guilty then I want her to go to jail.
Don't buy the big lie that this trial is rigged! Consider the sources that are peddling that lie, most are biased, and the others are uninformed! It's sad and kind of scary, really.
Anon 8:12 -
You speak of people "trashing the system". Do you think a kangaroo court that pretends to be a court of justice should not be trashed? Or do you still consider Brian House's court to be fair and impartial? If the latter, I (for one) would love to see your reasoning and/or your evidence there.
Also, you speak of letting the prosecutors "do their job". From what I see, the intended meaning of this can only be "nothing to see here, move along". Res ipsa loquitur.
If you do not see (or will not admit) that this trial has been a severe miscarriage of justice, then you are either deluded, a troll, or affiliated with the prosecution and/or the accusers. To me, it seems like the last possibility is the most likely, as the prosecution and accusers have a vested interest in trying to neutralize Mr. Anderson's blog. Obviously he is having an effect on the people of the Chattanooga and North Georgia areas. Cui bono?
Anon... So do you think that Len "the Man" Gregor's continuous personal experiences lecture should be allowed to be a part of the cross? This is getting absolutely crazy! The words of a famous lawyer, "Is there a question any where in the future?" comes to mind.
Interestingly, this lady in Hartford's email is incorrect...Sounds like a winner...
Regarding not having a summary of an expert witness, don't forget that the prosecution CHOSE not to depose Dr. Fajman, then tried to claim that their choice not to depose her before the trial meant she should be disqualified.
Look for the prosecutors to try that trick with others, too. If House goes along with it, that is another strike for appeal.
Someone needs to stand up and tell "The Man" that we don't care if he was molested when he was a Catholic Choir Boy!!!! Just ask questions of the witnesses, or let them get off the stand!!!!
What a Circus!!! You have Ringmaster House, and Bobo and Bozo the clowns providing the side show. talk about trying to divert the attention of the audience (read Jury) Bobo is boring the parlor to sleep with his dictation, while Bozo attempts to perform magic tricks to distract from reality... all the while Ringmaster (out)House claps and applauds and tries to make the audience think they have performed some impossible feat!!!
What a mockery of our judicial system!!!!
10:33, you do not care about justice. You have already made it quite clear which "side" you're on. Actually, the defense did not get away with anything yesterday. The prosecution had access to the witness prior to yesterday & chose to do their little grandstanding to make it look worse than it was.
We are not biased or uninformed. We are not part of "mob" or "followers" of Bill Anderson. We are citizens of a country in which we love & desire to be fair. As someone commented earlier, Tonya Craft just happens to be the face on this travesty. I do not know her, but I feel sorry for her. I also feel sorry for the children who have been coached in this whole fiasco.
Answer this, have you ever dealt with the CAC in any way, shape or form? Have you ever been a victim or defendant in this county? Have you ever had someone accuse you of something you didn't do? Probably none of the above. Nevertheless, you sit here accusing people who are genuinely concerned about this of following someone, mob tactics & so forth. Well my uninformed, biased, non-friend, you are wrong. Do you know that many people on here have gone into this trial? Do you know that the majority of the people truly following this trial had no opinion whatsoever before the trial started? You know, that crazy old thing called innocent until proven guilty. The prosecution, the judge & the accusers' parents have brought this on themselves. They are the ones who presented zero evidence, acted completely inappropriate in a court of law and quite frankly, have broken so many laws now, the higher ups are watching.
Good luck to you in whatever it is you are trying to prove, because once again, it was a diatribe with no facts for debate.
Now I have thrown some more questions at you, let's see if you answer or just continue your "yelling" at the "mob".
Actually, 10:38 - I don't believe there have been any miscarriages here other than the ones perpetrated by the mob and some of the media. There has been plenty of evidence presented, and there was an indictment by the grand jury. More than enough for a trial.
It's weird, most people want justice and punishment to be served for the rest of the world, but if they screw up they want the powers that be to overlook that.
I think this case is a classic example of that, and that most of you are just gnashing your teeth.
Let the system work,and stop trying to unduly influence the outcome. You are being led by one who wears his bias! check it out in some of his other post! Think for yourself.
Like I said - I really don't care what the verdict is, I just can't stand the biased way the mob and Wild Bill are handling this.
Oh and Tandt, It wouldn't matter if I was the Virgin Mary herself, I doubt you would believe me. Most of you are blind to sane argument at this point. I think your pride and want to be right is getting in your way.
HAHA!!! I hear that Barnam and Bailey are looking for a new ringmaster and a couple of clowns. Maybe when the big 3 lose are disbarred, they can find a job with that circus.
On a side note. It is too funny that my capcha word is miestro to post!!!!
Regarding the tweet from Melydia Clewell about the women that sleeps all day, is that not a problem the judge should be trying to address?
I sure it happens a fair amount, but I was on a jury for a trial that lasted a little over a week once, and twice during the trial and at odd times when we didn't normally take breaks, the judge suddenly interrupted testimony and said "let's all take a break, shall we?" From the seating arrangements, I could only see the jurors on either side of me, and both times when I asked another juror about the unexpected breaks, they said someone in the back row had fallen asleep so the judge immediately called a break.
All part of managing a trial I guess, and House is obviously doing a poor job of it. Some I'm sure is intentional, some may be inexperience, but a fair part I'm guessing is just flat out incompetence.
Good point DMK...many of the court staff seem to spend most of their day sleeping or texting...
I wonder how Brian House would feel if some kids at Peavine Baptist made up some stories about him improperly touching them during his upward coaching.
It could happen...
"nosie_rosie Len Gregor asks if #TonyaCraft is a narcissist. Kim Parvin: I run, I jog, so I guess I'd be considered a narcissist as well."
well played ;)
If you were the virgin Mary, you wouldn't be alive. Duh! I am not blind & the only thing that has made my mind up, IS the prosecution. Seriously, quit with the crap about not caring either way. No one is buying your snake oil. You obviously are blind to facts. Once again, you didn't answer a single question. If you tell the truth, which is what we should all do, I might like to hear your answers. You see, I am a good and understanding person. I am a victim & actually the defense in the case was the one pulling the strings of the prosecution & the judge. Unfortunately, another girl had to be raped while waiting for the trial to happen. So the rapist served his 15 years & walks among us in Catoosa County. If it would have gone to trial the first 3 times it was supposed to, he would still be in prison & our streets would be safer.
By the way, this guy was let out in November 2008, he was at 1890's day last year just walking around looking at all the girls. Do you think the sheriff's department cared? Nope! They were busy "working" on cases that make them money.
Bless your heart.
To the 10:52
Just because someone says something in court does not make it automatic inculpatory evidence. One must look for the quality of the evidence and also the behavior of the witnesses, and their motivation.
Mike Nifong insisted that because Crystal Mangum said she was raped by three Duke lacrosse players and that SANE Tara Levicy insisted that was the case, that he had "evidence." In the end, he only had lies, and the Attorney General of North Carolina, after conducting a real criminal investigation, made that very clear.
My Comments to Kathleen whom I have Huge amount of respect for, but know for a fact has not done the research needed on this case.
I too am a SANE and FNE, I respectfully and completely disagree with her.
Kathleen,
I must admit I was saddened and dismayed by this posting. The State's "expert" witnesses consisted of someone who has NO degree but is taking "online classes" for a bachelors, someone who actually has a masters (not sure in what) and someone who has a bachelors in Anthropology but took "some" seminars. They did elicit that information during testimony. I have to question a SANE nurse who works in a county with approximately 60 thousand people how she is doing that many child molestation exams a year. That is so far above the demographic average as to raise eyebrows to the hairline. Who knows maybe Catoosa County has an outbreak of sexual predators.
I read the verbatim testimony of the SANE nurse. Her findings at BEST are "indeterminate" if not normal. As well you know, in 85% of child molestation that include penetration, there will be NO signs of abuse.
Apparently you have not done the research on this case that you should have. All the children denied sexual contact with Tonya Craft in their initial interviews. The "expert" (taking online classes for a bachelors" stated it was not until the cameras were off, she had left the room, the child was with her parent and she was at her desk writing her notes that this child came up to her and out of the blue told her graphic details about abuse. For an hour previous (including 16 times of asking is there more you want to tell me) the child had denied anything happened, but once left alone with the parent SUDDENLY remembers graphic abuse? OH.. wait... she forgot to document that in her notes, NOT A WORD in her notes about this "sudden revelation", on camera or anywhere else.
Let me add this, this child is a trained actress (yes with a resume of productions and classes) as well.
As the interviews (3 in all) went on over at minimum a year (I think more like 2 but dont' want to go look it up at the moment)period, the stories told by the children began to change wildly. First interview nothing happened, second interview it happened in the bathtub, third interview then it didn't happen there, but happened in the kitchen, and first there was no penetration but simply touching outside the clothes, THEN it went to one finger penetration and then it went to ALL her fingers AND anal penetration. Let us add this in, on the stand one of the accusers suddenly came up with a new a very graphic story. When asked why, in all the interviews she had given to the various healthcare and police workers she had never ever even intimated this, she replied, "I suddenly just remembered". As a matter of factual testimony, all the accusers replied to many questions about things they had claimed with "I don't remember now or I suddenly remembered. So now, they no longer remember the story they told to person A, which is different from the story told to person B, which is very different from the story told to person C and further, different from the story they tell in court. Not just a little different, not the same story with added detail.. Completely different. Since the story changed wildly over several years (remember they claim it happened when they were 5 and 6 they are now 9 to 11) and it is incredibly obvious if you listen to the tapes of the interviews that these children were led and coached in their stories.
Continued from above:
In one tape a child says, my mom told me where I was touched and how. wow......
You and I both have read the research on this and you and I both know how easily children can be led (specially by a vindictive parent). Hence why we are so very careful in how we interview.
For you to post such a scathing condemnation of this case without all the pertinent data is upsetting to me. Factually, one of the accuser's mother has stated (before anything was accused) that she was going to "get" Tonya Craft. Another accusers mother was going to get "Tonya Craft" because the teacher held her child back a year in school. In fact, it was Tonya who went to counselors and others when her daughter came to her with inappropriate behaviors by her ex husband's wife. It was only after she reported this that "suddenly" she is the one being accused of sexual assault on a child. Makes you go hum...
It seems highly unlikely that a sexual predator is going to go to the authorities and make a complaint about someone else and know they are going to interview the child.
Let us add in the Judge, who was her ex husband's lawyer during a nasty and bitter divorce and custody battle.
There is far more here than meets the eye. There are far too many key witnesses (children and adults alike) who during testimony in court, change their stories and explain it away with "I suddenly remembered". Once maybe, I can accept, repeated "I suddenly remembered" is nonsense and unbelievable at best.
Having listened to the tapes of the interviews, the testimony and the State's "expert" witnesses, I come to the conclusion that Tony Craft is most likely innocent of anything but pissing off the wrong people in a small southern town where old money and the good old boy system is alive and well.
Sorry we need to disagree on this one Kathleen.
I can't believe that after the actions of the prosecution there is anyone with half a brain willing to stand up for them.
To the person commenting on Ms. Anderson discussing the case at work.
1. That is a Hippa violation
2. As a witness she has been instructed NOT to talk to anyone about the case. She is in contempt of court.
3. Report her to your bosses for this as it is incredibly unprofessional behavior
I need to correct an above statement I made.
"Let us add in the Judge, who was her ex husband's lawyer during a nasty and bitter divorce and custody battle."
The judge's law firm was involved not him. The custody fight was with her second husband not the last one. I am sorry for the misinformation.
mr. anderson, i think you need to make a list starting from the beginning of the trial of everything that has been inappropriate, breaking rules, laws, etc for these ignorant people that continue to say that nothing minor has been done. apparently these people aren't getting it... and i for one would like to see it in list form because there is so much that has happened that should not have and it is hard to remember it all. (just a list with no commentary or much explanation)
Agreed Kerwyn, Sharon Anderson's discussion of the case is a major HIPPA violation, but doubt any major retaliation will be taken by her superiors. She has worked at Hutchinson for years, which is also heavily influence by Dewayne Wilson (Sherri Wilson's husband).
If the victims were not examined at Hutcheson, then it would not be a HIPAA violation. I am not sure where they were examined.
Kerwyn, excellent notification to the author of that blog. I too was looking at it thinking, "wow, she does not have all of the facts."
I truly respect your comments on here, as you obviously have had a great deal of experience as an FNE. I'm glad you found this and are able to contribute intelligent commentary.
Thank you!
I meant to say that it would not be a HIPAA violation that Hutcheson could pursue if the child was not examined at their facility. HIPAA violations that would give Hutcheson problems have to be an patients within their facility.
I wouldn't send anyone to Hutchison! Not because of Sharon Anderson but because they told my mom she had a bladder infection when in reality she had congestive HEART failure.
The doctor and nurses @ Erlanger even told her never to go to Hutchison again.
Tonya's divorce from Joal Henke wasn't as bad as some say... it could have been...but once Joal realized that Tonya's Private Investigator had evidence of several sexual escapades he was involved in, their divorce suddenly became uncontested.
One thing to consider, however, is how much Joal Henke was in arrears in his Court Ordered Child Support...and the fact that Joal refused to pay Tonya alimony before she married again. AND...how much money Joal owes Tonya's family for constantly bailing out his sorry ---!
Joal Henke, you sicken me. I pray to God that Sarah never has a child with you. And yes...i am well aware that she is already pregnant. She is a victim of your lies and deception. You have manipulated Sarah just as you have manipulated so many others at Eastwood Church.
May God have mercy on your soul.
" If the victims were not examined at Hutcheson, then it would not be a HIPAA violation. I am not sure where they were examined.
April 28, 2010 11:55 AM"
You are incorrect. The examiner (nurse, Dr, emt) is held to the privacy laws regardless of where the examination took place unless and until the patient signs a release letting their records become public which then allows the examiner to talk about it openly.
Anon 7:17
"I have seen no evidence or facts that prove Tonyas innocence either!"
I see that "either" there, an indication you also see no evidence of guilt. Lets hope we never convict simply on the basis of accusations, especially when they come about after multiple interviews like this case has seen.
Below is my comment to Kathleen, so I'll await her to approve and post it.
******************
Hello Kathleen Eckelt,
Hope all is well. It has been a few years since I'd commented here.
For any that question what the expert evidence was, the testimony of both the SANE Nurse and the doctor over her, described a condition they classified as not being NORMAL. Of the 3 alleged victims, the strongest testimony given for any of them was as follows;
"...Her hymen was crescent shaped with the edges thickened and raw with some erosion of tissue. There were no tears or swelling to the hymen that day. Her anal area appeared normal. Her hymen did appear abnormal and consistent with sexual abuse. I saw her results as “very suspicious” for sexual abuse.” (note the "ABNORMAL)
In response to this, the defense attorney questioned the rather inexperienced doctor - the one who had signed off on the Nurse's SANE report as that Nurse must have done to complete that report - about her knowledge of what NORMAL was, to which he pointed out what the medical professionals find as being NORMAL;
"... according to the Journal of Pediatrics, asymmetric, rolled and thickened hymens are found in normal girls. He said 53.8 percent of girls examined in the frog-leg position show rolled and thickened edges and that estrogen amounts can change the shape and condition of the hymen."
So the outcome of the testimony by the state's experts are that it was revealed neither are experts if they conclude what they saw to be classified as "ABNORMAL".
We know there are 'experts for hire', but I'd be hesitant to put Dr. Nancy Fajman in that category. She's a board-certified pediatrics physician as well as a noted child abuse examiner and teacher at Emory University’s Medical Center, absent any agenda pro or con in her evaluation of the data for the Tonya Craft case.
The opinion of Dr. Nancy Fajman was that the hymens were "normal". How a defense attorney went about showing reason for the inaccuracy of the state brought forth for the SANE exams may be "strategy", but the end result is the same - their conclusions were inaccurate.
12:16 - I agree with you. However, I was referring to the comment that Hutcheson superiors would not take action. Hutcheson would only be required to take action against their employees discussions about their patients.
Question: Is there any situation where evidence/documentation can be presented in court without having gone through discovery? From what I read on Wikipedia (I know, it's not always 100% accurate. That's why i'm asking): At the state level -
Many states have adopted discovery procedures based on the federal system; some closely adhere to the federal model, others not so closely. Some states take an entirely different approach to discovery.
Also, great cartoon from the Times-Free Press editorial today?:
http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2010/apr/28/tonya-craft-trial/?opinioncartoons
Just read on Channel 3 Facebook page that the Today Show will be airing the Tonya Craft story tomorrow morning. The Today Show is sending Michelle Kaczynski down today to get Channel 3's pre-trial interview and trial material.
A HIPAA violation has to be reported by the person whose information is shared. In this case, it would be the guardian of the child. If Ms. Anderson was not examining the patient at Hutcheson, the child's family would have to make a complaint about her to the proper authorities, which would not be Hutcheson. Maybe the victim's family did not mind that the information was shared by Ms. Anderson. Maybe they thought it would help spread the word that Tonya was guilty. If that is the case, it backfired on them.
Hey, the SANE nurse could get hit with a maximum fine of $50,000 since she shared confidential patient information. Think that would curtail her non-"expert" testimonies for future cases. I Wonder if she is worried about this, since it seems that Hutcheson employees could testify to what she told them? I would be freaking thinking I could be fined that amount.
via http://www.facebook.com/WRCBtv:
WRCB Channel 3 Eyewitness News
NBC plans to broadcast its Tonya Craft story Thursday morning on the Today Show. It airs sometime between 7a-9a on Channel 3 in Chattanooga or your local NBC affiliate.
I'm confused by the fact that all of you who live in GA are acting as if this behavior in your Justice System is new. Everyone knows about the good 'ole boy system your County is built on and thrives there every day. Until the people stand together and rid the state of these Good Ole boy Systems, you deserve everything that happens.
Hey, you think the SANE nurse who testified is freaking because she could be fined up to $50,000 for disclosing private health information? Since it appears she divulged private information to co-workers they could be called to testify at her HIPPA hearing. Would probably detour her from testifying as a non-"expert" witness in other shame cases.
jason S.~
how'd you get in the courtroom? Usually they are such asses about no letting anyone in that isn't a defendant etc. I wasn't even allowed in the courtroom with my husband.
Can someone tell me if courthouses in the same size jurisdiction as Catoosa's have so many people up for arraignment, trial, pleas that they are literally overflowing outside? How about "people in jail go first"? Tells you how much they love to "take em down".
ihatecatoosa-
It is an open trial to the public, you can enter and exit as you please.
Futhermore, I urge all Catoosa county residents to go to the courthouse and sit in and show support for Tonya and the defense.
I also think we should gather hundreds of residents on the courthouse lawn. To let our so-called gov't know that we WILL NOT sit and allow this rift-raft to run our local gov't. It can be done peacefully and without arrest. It is our freedom of speach and the right to gather peacefully.
Folks, its time we stand up, not just for Tonya, but for our rights.
Also, I will be loud and vocal when election time comes up. That includes you your Dishonor, and you- Kingpin.
Can someone re-post the link to the article where "Buzz" is quoted as saying that:
"District attorney [he] places emphasis on prosecuting child molestation and domestic violence cases..."
A salient point indeed.
Kathleen are you aware the treatment of alledged victim/child when her mother discovered she was touching another child? She pulled her from under the bed and whipped her with a belt. Later she insisted she tell her who showed her how to do it and told her if she would give her a name that she would not be in trouble. What does all your training and expertise lead you to believe? All of the charges snowballed from this one incident. It is easy to understand how it all happened when you add to the mix the politics that are involved in this court that is ran by a judge that represented the defendants husband in their divorce. I agree with you that these nurses have good intentions and are doing their best but dont kid yourself by thinking they cant be swayed by a powerful prosecutor and small town politics. I feel they are also the real victims along with Tonya Craft. Good for you for defending your colleagues. Investigate the rest of it. I live there and I know what is going on. I would never defend a child molester and neither would any of the others following this joke of a trial. I am a father of two daughters, one grown and one in elementary school and check the sex offender registry periodically to make sure there arent any near by. Nothing sickens me more than to think someone would do this to a child. There is no doubt in my mind that Ms Craft is completely innocent of these charges.
JG
Per the WRCBTV- Channel 3 Facebook Page- NBC is sending Michelle Kosiniski to obtain info/ cover the story. However the very next sentence in the post states they do not know when the story will air. They will let us know when they know more.
Thank God Channel 3 notified them and thank God NBC is taking note of this sickening situation.
I hope they expose everything- the corruption, lies, perjury, manipulations, brainwashing, BS Forensic Investigators and not the mention the un-ethical actions by the Judge, Prosecutors and Witnesses!
It is HIPAA not HIPPA. I don't think the point suggested by the poster was that she broke a law, violated HIPAA, or that Ms. Craft is innocent. I think the point to be made was that she (Sharon A)has been discussing the case openly since the beginning. A professional, who abides by ethical standards, would not do this. She should keep the details to herself until asked for in court or other legal proceedings. Her open discussions support the fact that she is by no means as "expert". An "expert" would not be discussing her cases at work. This behavior is an example to show that Ms. Craft hasn't received a fair trial. Sharon Anderson has more than one conflict with this case and should not have been involved AT ALL. If she was truly an expert, then she should have removed herself from the exam duty when she discovered the childs parent is her colleague (Dewayne Wilson - Coroner). This action by Sharon Anderson would have prevented any personal bias and potential favor. Ms. Anderson should learn that just because she gets a call that it doesn't mean she should be the one to investigate. She should ALWAYS remove herself from ANY case where it could be suggested she has a conflict of interest. Also - Ms. Anderson has more than one employer. Hutcheson was not mentioned in the original post.
Can anyone tell me how many ADA's there are in the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit?
At the Catoosa County office?
And didn't James Dickey write a famous book about Catoosa/Walker/Dade Counties?
Heck, maybe what is happening on ole Buzz'es watch is just 'cuz he is doing his own little part to try to stop the inbreeding...
I wonder why Gregor, Arnt, and House are not on here answering these allegations? Or Addressing the media??
Seems like they would want to clear the air if they felt like they were on the up and up!
Anyone know if there is a reason they haven't done so??
anon 1:27,
Here is the link.
http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=368&dat=19980225&id=GKIxAAAAIBAJ&sjid=iT8DAAAAIBAJ&pg=6295,2954858
PEOPLE HOW MANY TIMES DO I HAVE TO TELL YOU. ALL THEY HAVE TO HAVE A MASTER'S IN IS LYING, AND DO WHAT THEY ARE TOLD..I WAS TOLD IF THEY DISAGREE THEY WILL LOSE THEIR JOB'S.GREGOR THE MAN SAID HE DID NOT ANSWER TO ANYONE, THEY DID NOT ANYONE TELL THEM HOW TO RUN THEIR COUNTY..MY PRAYER IS I HOPE GREGOR THE MAN GET's EXACTLY WHAT HE DESERVES...
I can't believe the number of people that are accusing ALL of the prosecutions' witnesses of perjury! What about the principal and accuser # 1's last year's teacher? What could they possibly gain from this? And before it is even said I am not any of the accuser's mom nor related or close to them. One more question...why would Tonya's own dtr accuse her of such horrific things? Please elaborate because I'm really having a difficult time believing these theories!
I am just wondering if I get a food permit in the city of Ringgold would I be able to sell cotton candy and snow cones on the front lawn of the court house.
Anon. 2:10
None of those witnesses witnessed anything directly. From what I read about their testimony, they weren't giving real evidence, they were gossiping, rumor mongering and speculating.
Our country is going to the dogs when people, our judicial and our legislative systems can't see the difference between actual evidence and speculation about causation, innuendo and claims about what someone supposedly said.
Hello the principal and one of the last years teachers didn't say anything against Tonya!!!! The only teacher that said anything of interest was Ms Kythas. All she said was that she observed the child pleasing herself. All children do this at some time or another. If you don't believe me go ask your own private doctor.
Anon210 THEIR JOB'S I HEAR THE LAMB'S & WILSON'S RUN THE SCHOOL.TRUE OR FALSE...
Yes, the Wilson's and the Lambs along with a few other's that have money DO RUN THE SCHOOL. If you don't believe me just ask anyone but them that's children go there. I can bet that over 75% of the parents feel this way. Sherri Wilson also runs the recreation dept in Chickamauga too
I must admit I do find it interesting that there are no comments from the other side at certain times of the day. Hmmm. I wonder why....
Has anyone been to court today? If so, is it full on the defense side or both sides?
Wish I could go more, but gotta work.
As a former student I can tell you, the parents with the most money run the school. When I went there it was the Penlands, but they were very respectable and didn't abuse thier influence like these people have.
anon 2:06 - they can not say anything openly because of the gag order. But, they can come on here & other places anonymously & still not add anything factual. :-)
anon 2:10 - believe it beloved. It happens every single day. Unfortunately, it is used as a tool by unscrupulous parents for many reasons (non child support payments, vengence, hatred or just plain evil). If you look at tape of Mrs. Craft's daughter, you will understand. If you knew that she first said that "she didn't remember mommy doing anything to her, but daddy said she did", that answers everything. Also, the other 2 children said that nothing happened to them. After hours of suggestive questioning, in front of a camera & not, they finally said something did.
It's sad, but true that it happens so much. I don't know if you know this, but there are a lot of evil people out there. Some are wolves dressed in sheep's clothing, some are just snakes. Tonya's ex actually falls into to the category of the latter. He has "found" God now, even though my answer to that is always the same. God was never playing hide and seek. Either way, he's still a liar & did perjure himself on the stand. All but 3 of the state's witnesses did if I remember correctly.
Bill, I believe we all see the whole timing thing. I guess they think we are as ignorant as the prosecution thinks the jury is.
What do you think about this "narcissist" & "fitness" thing? I do find it ironic that Gregor is always the one asking those questions & he is a "health & fitness nut". Oh, and a narcissist. :-)
Keep up the good work!
Prosecutor Len Gregor has taken over questions for the prosecution. When Hart explains that she and Craft were prayer partners, Gregor responded, "I have no beef with religion, but you do understand that there are people who hide in church, and hide behind God, and do terrible things?" Hart acknowledged the statement.
As do law enforcement who hide behind their badges, attorneys who hide behind their law degrees and judges who hide beneath their robes.
Indeed, you are correct. What Gregor is doing is as bad as what a real child molester does. He is molesting the law. What he does goes to the very heart of the system.
William
Did you follow the Sam Parker trial in Walker County and notice any similarities in the way "the system" works in the Lookout Mountain Judicial District?
Specifically, the judge essentially ordered the jury to return with a verdict. If think the other 11 are wrong, how can I be forced to side with them?
Re: Grand Jury Indictments
"...The balance has shifted so dramatically in favor of the prosecution that it has been noted, time and again, that “A good prosecutor could get a grand jury to indict a ham sandwich."
Google it.
Ward is correct. Prosecutors basically control the system and this is what we get.
Anonymous 2010
To your comment about the daughter for 2 years her Dad has been telling her Your Mom did something mad to you..and at times this is all she would repeat she would say she did not know what but that it was bad..You get told that at a young age over and over then coached at what to say you would to she is scared and confused..
Tonya Craft Trial Update: How 'Normal' Becomes 'Very Suspicious'
at Reason Mag's dot com site
Anon. 2:10 Have you read any of the trial transcripts? Tonya's daughter said, she doesn't remember her Mommy doing anything to her, but her Daddy told her he did!! Please read about the trial before you comment! By the way, the step-mother showered with her step-daughter from the age of 6 until well after this investigation started. Do you think that is proper? I don't!!!
IMHO, the prosecution and their clones are running scared, as someone posted in another post, they have awakened a sleeping giant!!! All I can say is, it is about time citizens of the county woke up and said enough of false allegations and rigged trials. Oh and to the person who said, she was indicted by the grand jury, so there must be something to it, the grand jury only hears what the DA wants them to hear, so the DA can do and say whatever he wants to get an indictment! Sorry I don't set much store in anything to do with the judicial system in Catoosa County. You know what is really going to be sad, after all is said and done and many convictions are overturned, it could be that some of the ones who get out will really be guilty, but because of all this misconduct, they too may get a second chance!!!
State changing thier demeanor (according to Callie Statrnes WRCB) to the witnesses now that the today show is there.
Too late 3 stooges, your gonna get caught.
I will be there laughing all the way. Hope you 3 enjoy your last few days of work.
Callie:
"Just touched base with @TodayShow producer. Introduced her to Dr. Lorandos, who quickly explained the [gag order]"
Wonder if any others were in line hoping to be introduced?
Anon 10:29 you can go straight to HELL and on your way, you check your facts. There was no vendetta, in fact you stupid cow, the parents of the boys didn't even believe it at first. Do you know about the stuff they found on his computer and the sick pictures they found in his residence, sick stuff that he showed to young 13 year old boys??? Do you know he was let go as jailer because he molested a 17 year old inmate, but instead of arresting the bastard they let him go. Do you know how many people in this county knew of his preference for boys, yet turned a blind eye. Again, you just go to hell!!!!!!
Sorry about the misspelling with HIPAA (I said hippa), it's been a while since I've done frontline clinical. But what I was trying to point out was that due to Sharon Anderson's discussion of her opinion of the case at her primary work place, she has had a huge potential to be dissuaded in her views due to her years of close association to the Wilsons. Addtionaly as a professional, it is out of the bounds of appropriate conduct.
Also, unless unfamiliarity with SANE charting standards has me wrong, documenting on a report of "suspicisous findings" is subjective of the documentor and not clear objective findings.
I just saw that the NBC reporter is in route and it will be on the Today show tomorrow. People directly involved cannot talk to the media local or national because of the gag order.
If defense attorneys were in charge of the system, they would dismiss every case no matter the evidence. The role of the defense attorney is to defend his client to the utmost even when he knows the client is guilty.
You should write an article illustrating the different roles of the prosecutor as compared to the defense attorney. This would show how and why Nifong, Arndt, and Gregor are breaking the ethical rules they are supposed to follow. Defense attorneys (Cochran, Bailey) with a guilty client do what Nifong did in high-profile cases and are never penalized. Nor should they be.
@ Kellie Graham,
You are not wrong. I am a SANE and our clinical documentation must remain dispassionate. We must not inject our subjective feelings.
As I have stated before, given the same findings, I would have charted undetermined at best. It is nether my place nor within my scope of practice to come to a subjective conclusion. I base my conclusions on facts. If the facts presented do not meet the agenda or goal of either the patient, the defense or the prosecution... tough.
There are only two factual findings possible, yes it happened or there is no evidence that it happened. There is no maybe. Maybe's are the realm of the lawyers, not the clinical practitioner. After all, I can't imagine a Physician telling you "maybe" you are dying from cancer.
Why was the principal at Chickamauga Elementary (the fugly Kristin Bradley) who was a witness, allowed to sit in the courtroom and take notes today as teachers at her school testified? These are the types of things the Today Show needs to find out. No doubt this was a tactic to pressure the defense witness who would be concerned for their jobs.
Good point, 4:52. Actually, I believe that there should be no professional prosecutors at all, and that individual attorneys should have to serve once in a while as prosecutors. That may be unrealistic in this day and time, but prosecutors have grown too powerful, and they are protected by immunity that I don't believe they should have.
Paul Craig Roberts and Lawrence Stratton in their book The Tyranny of Good Intentions lay out the way that prosecutors are SUPPOSED to act, but most prosecutors laugh at those standards now.
As Gregor himself said it, as a prosecutor, he gets to be "The Man." I didn't write that; he did.
It is usually not normal for a third grader to please themselves in public, let alone have the knowledge to do so in the manner (kegel muscles) that Mrs. Kythas described as she pointed out. I feel that a lot of people are having such a hard time with this case because Tonya is a young attractive female teacher and noone wants to think her capable of doing so. I have to wonder...if this were a man on trial here would he have the same amount of support. I definitely think not!!
Well, well. The trial is over and the Usual Suspects are posting.
To be honest, I think that I will take the word of a professor of pediatrics over something from a CAC "expert."
I made the comment at 4:52. Thanks for the reply. I don't think doing away with professional prosecutors would prevent what is happening. You would have individual attorneys seizing child molestation cases for the publicity.
A hobby of mine is following high-profile trials, mostly murder trials in state court. I am not enamored of the federal system, by the way.
When I first saw Nifong on TV, he reminded me of a member of O.J. Simpson's Dream team. In most trials I have followed, the prosecutors say little out of court and go back to obscurity after the trial is over. How many people can name the lead prosecutor in the Scott Peterson trial? In contrast, Peterson's attorney, Mark Geragos, regularly appears on TV.
In the murder trials I keep up with, if the defendant is convicted the evidence was there. And I am by nature a skeptic. That is why I am supporting Tonya Craft and have told others about what is going on.
It is true that the Wilsons and Lambs run the school. For those of you who are wondering, the reason why the teachers lied is because they feared for their jobs. They called a meeting several weeks ago and so much as threatened all employees at Chickamauga schools not to discuss or support this case. BTW, Wilson has her own parking space at the school, for Heaven's sake. These teachers are afraid of the Wilsons and Lambs, and the fact that if they speak out for Tonya, they may be the next on the list.
Anon 10:38 checking in.
Anon 10:52 writes, "Actually, 10:38 - I don't believe there have been any miscarriages here other than the ones perpetrated by the mob and some of the media."
I rest my case. You are either deluded, a troll, or one of the prosecutors, one of the accusers, or someone affiliated with either/both of those groups.
In case you're not aware (doubtful), an indictment by a grand jury in no way implies guilt. It simply allows a trial to proceed. I may not be a legal expert, but I know that much. Furthermore, I believe that a grand jury indictment can be made merely on preponderance of evidence, which is a different standard from criminal trials. Someone please correct me if I'm wrong.
My oblique request for you to present reasoning and/or evidence that this trial is fair and impartial was mainly a rhetorical one. I'm not surprised that you essentially ignored it.
With that said, I'm not going to waste any more time on you, and I strongly urge others to do the same.
FIAT IVSTITIA RVAT CAELVM
Everyone need to BOYCOTT all the Wilson's funeral homes and ambulance services. Hit them where it hurts, their bank accounts. I will encourage anyone I know needing funeral services to go elsewhere.
It was reported today that "Face" and "The Man" were not as aggressive and confrontational with the defense witnesses today. Could it be that they realize that now that the national media is taking a close look at the case they are trying to change their approach and image. The "untouchable three", outHouse, Moe, and Curly are finally realizing that there antics are not going to play very well outside their little fiefdom in Catoosa County. I also heard that the high sheriff even made an appearance. Too bad they didn't prosecute his drug dealing son with the same fervor that Ms. Craft is getting. Boss Hoss and Hazard County still lives in 2010. Catoosa County is a joke and I predict there will be wailing and nashing of teeth when these clowns get theirs from the State Bar. What they have done is far worse than what the idiot Neifong did in North Carolina.
10:29 Innocent people do not plead guilty to crimes they didn't commit, an innocent person would have wanted a trial. I don't know who you are, but obviously you have drunk Eddie and Donna Bomar's poisioned kool-aid!!! I strongly believe in Tonya's innocence, because the evidence in this case is just not there. However, in Eddie's case, the evidence was abundant and it wasn't a Church vendetta. He is a very sick man and for Donna to stay with him, she is sick also.
I don't ever say much I am a stay at home mom and I really do stay to myself. I don't live in the City limits of Chickamauga but my children do attend that school. I will say that I would feel more comfortable with these children out of the school system. They have only brought about hate and fear. I can't imagine, but if I was one of the teachers that these children had I would demand a camera in the classroom for my protection. Okay I have said my peace.
The thing is that these parents actually choose their children's teachers. The Wilson's actually chose Tonya to teach their daughter which says that they must've felt like she was the best. Obviously, Tonya was accurate about her assessment since the girl is still in 1st grade.
Innocent until proven guilty; we must not allow our voracious lust for vengence to over-ride true justice and the course it must take before convicting. That being said...ALWAYS question the motives and intensions and tactics of those seeking to convict.
Yes we should protect children...but we should not compromise the truth in order to do so.
...anytime an issue (sex offenses) is hyped into a "politically hot topic", all rational reasoning goes out the door and something much worse will result.
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