After a trial which lasted nearly five months surrounding what prosecutors have described as a “cold blooded killing”, while defense attorneys have argued self defense against domestic violence, a verdict has been reached.
Today, following 3 days of deliberations, Jodi Arias was found guilty of Murder in the First-Degree by a jury in Phoenix Arizona. Arias had been accused of murdering her ex-boyfriend Travis Alexander in the shower of his suburban Arizona home back in June of 2008. Alexander suffered from a gunshot wound to the head in addition to over two dozen stab wounds.
Throughout the case, the prosecution argued (with strong evidence) that Jodi Arias planned the attack against her ex-boyfriend in a jealous rage after being rejected while he began to pursue other women. Arias initially denied being present at the time of the killing. She later recanted her story stating that she had witnessed Alexander being attacked by two intruders who she was not able to identify. Finally, she admitted to killing Alexander out of self defense. She cited trauma and fear from the incident as the reason for her repeatedly changed account of what had occurred. The case appeared to be made for tabloids as it took on several dramatic twists.
Here is a clip highlighting some of the dramatic moments of trial (prior to the conviction):
What happens next?
As a result of her conviction, Arias could face the death penalty. However, the case is far from over. The trial now moves into the aggravation phase in which the prosecution will have to prove with additional evidence that Alexander’s death was caused in a cruel manner and the jury must UNANIMOUSLY decide that Arias killed him cruelly. This will lead into the sentencing phase. If it is determined that Arias was not guilty of cruelty, the judge will decided on whether or not she will be sentenced to life in prison with eligibility for parole or without. If she is found guilty of cruelty and is given the death penalty, she will be the fourth woman in Arizona ever to do so.
Do you think she will be found guilty of Cruelty?
-Jordan
