Amanda Knox Saga

Hello all,

The Amanda Knox case has been brewing over in Italy for about 3 years now. Here is a nice recap story from CNN:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/09/30/world/europe/knox-court-saga/index.html?hpt=hp_c2

To make a long story short, Knox is charged (along with her then boyfriend) of killing her roommate, British student Meredith Kercher. Italian authorities collected DNA, along with other evidence to convict Knox, although Knox's lawyers vehemently contested the authenticity of much of the evidence due to contamination and mishandling by Italian police.

This case has numerous implications. First, Knox, an American citizen, has been painted as some kind of Femme Fatale by the Italian and European media. The Anti-US sentiment in Europe is still going strong and probably will not change anytime soon. Secondly, the fact that Knox has been held in an Italian jail during this entire process has upset many. There is no bond system in Europe, meaning Knox could not put up bail and get her freedom. She is being held and will be held until this appeal ends. Lastly, due to rules of European Law, Knox, who was sentenced to 25 years, could possibly receive a life sentence if Italian prosecutors can prove that the court's initial sentence was too lenient.

Being of Italian descent, I have kept an eye on this case for sometime. It is very scary to believe that Knox may never make it back to the United States. It also is a very scary proposition that DNA evidence can be mishandled so egregiously and still be admitted. The court of public opinion was against Knox from the word go, but this is not surprising considering Italian authorities told her that she should not hire an attorney when she was arrested. This case really highlights something my parents told me a long time ago. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. This is not to say that Knox could have foreseen any of this, but knowing your rights in a foreign country is extremely important at all times.

I hope that Knox gets a new trial although the outcome is slightly bleak. More to come on this case.

Best,
David