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December 15, 2008

Time line critical in Anthony case

Posted: 01:15 PM ET

NEW YORK–The time line is going to be critical for both sides in the Casey Anthony case.  So much will depend on whether forensic experts can determine even the approximate date of death.

The last time Caylee Anthony was seen alive was on Monday, June 16, 2008, the day after Father’s Day. In the days to follow, Casey Anthony allegedly asked neighbors for a shovel, and her car was seen backed up to the family’s garage. If prosecution experts can determine a time of death during this week, it will go a long way to corroborate other evidence in this so-far circumstantial case.

We don’t currently know what the defense will be in this case. If the remains are identified as Caylee, and it can be determined that the corpse was in the trunk for a substantial period of time, it may go far in helping the defense.

This is a capital murder case, and prosecutors may amend their decision to not seek death. A viable defense in this case, that could absolve the defendant of guilt, is the defense of insanity.

In Florida, as in the majority of jurisdictions in this country, the Supreme Court case of McNaughton provides the standard rule followed by Florida courts. The test for insanity from this landmark case is whether the defendant knew right from wrong at the time the crime was committed.

At first glance, Casey Anthony knew right from wrong, because if she committed this crime, she was able to lie her way through it, blame it on someone else, put the body in a bag with duct tape and dispose of it. However, if the body was in the trunk for a determinate amount of time, which is a viable possibility because of the strong odor many have described, there could be a time lapse between the murder and the intentional disposal of the remains.

As in the Texas murder case of multimillionaire Robert Durst, the defense was able to separate out the killing of victim Morris Black from the dismembering of his body, which was subsequently thrown out to sea. The millionaire was found not guilty of Black's murder, after successfully arguing self-defense, and that disposal of the body was not evidence of murder itself.

In this case, if there is enough time between the death of the toddler and disposal of her corpse, the defense could try to argue the same theory as was done in Durst, except insanity at the time of the crime would be substituted for self-defense. Subsequently, all the lies and actions that followed would be separated out from the killing itself.

Time will tell how the defense will proceed and many questions remain as to what forensic conclusions can actually be made in this case. This truly will be a battle of the experts.

–Jean Casarez, In Session correspondent

Filed under: Casey and Caylee Anthony


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k,. fielding   December 15th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

was able to find the actual search warrant document (and history) by the police for the Anthony's home, and there are a couple of things in there that the media hasn't reported, at least to my knowledge: i.e.: that Casey's 'friends' contacted the police themselves after her arrest to report that she was a habitual liar, including statements made by her brother.

Any thoughts?

gail horsey   December 15th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

I hav just been wondering they say casey was on the internet looking up several things Well if she did order something you need a credit car/debit to order has anyone checked the paper trail for this and also, if she did order it would have had to be delivered so wouldn't there be a paper trail like ups..fedex..Alot of us here in Maryland was just wondering..And also we understand there was a fight between casey and her mom on the 15th regarding money, well on the today show the mom stated everything was fine no problems...and also the mom keeps talking about zanny's apartment i watch alot of this where are tse pic's (we do not think there is a zanny but...just wondering...cause this girl is weird....very weird...thank yo, gail (md)

Melissa Guilbert   December 15th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

I find this story to be so unbelievable. How can a Mother do something so horrible to her child? It really makes me sad. Being a young mother with two boys a 3 year old and a 22 month old. I could never even fathom such a despicable act.

And even if by some miracle she didn't do it she should still be held accountable and jailed for life what kind of mother doesn't know where her kids are at all times. I never leave my kids with anyone except my husband. I only hope that little Caylee didn't suffer.

Tina Evans   December 15th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

we keep seeing the jail house recorded tapes with Casey and her parents. in this she tells her mom that she told and gave Lee every thing when she had her hour long visit with him. my question is, was her visit with Lee recorded as well? if so what all did she say to him.
he seems to be trying to avoid any and all involvement with this case now. I think he knows more than anyone else. what was his reaction to the possibility of Caylee's body being found?

Thank you for all your great coverage an this case. well done!

Cecelia Scribner   December 15th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

You and Beth, missed the point.maggots were found in the car incicating that death occured.along with the hair ,and the cadaver
dogs finding. Prosecutors did not need a body to charge caycee, with first degree murder. I disagree that this would be a difficult case to prove without a body.

Deanne   December 15th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

The Anthony grandparents have been through too much already from their adult daughters actions and the loss of their beautiful granddaughter and it's soo unfair that they now have to suffer unneccesarly because of vigilants that will not and cannot understand their uncomprehensible loss and suffering they already and will have to for the rest of their lives live with. The only thing they did was be blinded by unconditional love for their daughter and want to believe her, which is exactly what normal loving parents do sometimes, but I think they are slowly but surely coming to grips with the truth about their daughter. I just pray that our merciful Lord helps them through this most difficult and horrifying time and help others to be more understanding and merciful towards what they are going through as they are not the ones who I believe have not done anything wrong but love their adult, lying daughter.

maria   December 15th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

The strong odor of decomposition and the time Casey committed the murder is this the question not sure but I will give it my best... I belive she murdered Caylee on or about June 17 after the last day she was seen on Father's day and before she went to Blockbuster's with Tony. I belive Caylee was murdered during that time. I'm not sure when the video came out with Tony and Casey at blockbuster but I belive Caylee was murdered by then. As to the time when she no longer had her desceased body might of been a few days after that not much though matter of days. She has no defense in my opionion, She is guilty , she should admit it. She is guilty of murder and hiding the body. It was all during the same time frame.

Julie   December 15th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

I cannot even begin to comprehend how someone could do that to a child. but history shows us this has happended before ... susan smith, andrea yates,, ect. I do feel for the grandparents though, because when the DNA probably confirms it is Caylee then they will have to come to terms with the fact that thier daughter killed their granddaughter. I think casey should stay in prison for the rest of her life or worse... This is a first degree murder case, the computer info shows premeditation. what a horrible horrible person!

lotusjani   December 15th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Anything is possible in this life as horrendous as it sounds. I agree with the person that said that Lee knows quite a lot, and so do the parents for that matter. And Casey went to the airport, etc. areas to get the search away from where the body really was, she thought no one would think she is so stupid as to look so close to home. But yes, she is that stupid and horrible. Sorry for the grandparents but is high time they start admitting their daughter is a product of hell. She is evil!
What is with TrueTV lately? Old, old cases are being rerun over and over again. Spend six hours on TV to see rehash cases? When it was Court TV was much more interesting.

A person that watches Nancy Grace everyday.   December 15th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

I think Casey's mother knows more than we think. She knew there was a dead body in the trunk that's why she went ahead and take's Casey's clothes and washes them. Why is she getting away with this? Casey and her mother should rot in jail. Casey's father knows something too, but he looks like he's scared of his wife!!! When the news broke that they found a skull, a child's skull, I'm relief because now Caylee's soul has gone to heaven.

tracy   December 15th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

I think she probably did it because she wanted to be with her boyfriend and her boyfriend didn't want the child around. Has anyone delved into her background? Does she have a history of any mental illness, petty theft other than the check fraud. She seemed to have no job or source of income.

Lots of young moms party and they are not necessarily responsible for their kids if they leave them with strangers or alone but they don't kill them. In the jailhouse interviews she somehow seems detached as she laughs a few times through tears there is something strange whether she did it or not.

Have her friends or anyone heard of or met this so called Zanny person? Are they really doing to say Zanny did it to frame her? I don't know how that could fly in court.

Judy   December 15th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

I can not possible put myself in a position where I can comprehend abandoning my daughter because she killed my granddaughter, she would still be my daughter that I raised and loved all those years. But the only thing I don't like about the grandmother is her love for the media, especially when she told Casey in the taped jailhouse conversation-I'm in the media all the time, what do you want me to relate to them for you". Grandmother is enjoying her 10 minutes of fame, she knew Casey had don't something with Caylee, she is just covering for her daughter.,

john wardle   December 15th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

wonder if some one that mother knows but was told tell and daugter dies thenkills her any way

Shelley (canada)   December 15th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

I feel sorry for George and Cindy – to a point. They didn't ask for their daughter to murder their grandchild however, they need to come to terms with the reality that Casey did murder Caylee. Very sad situation.

Helen   December 15th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

My heart goes out to the Anthony's. They seem like nut cases, and I admit, they are definately a very dysfunctional family,but they have lost their grand-daughter, I am sure the thought of losing their daughter is heart wrenching,but there is NO DOUBT,in my mind, she killed her child, to get her out of the way,so she could have the care free life she wanted. Well, Ms. Anthony,where did it get you.
I only hope, poor Caylee, didn't suffer. We all feel as though she were ours.
May she rest in peace, with the angels.

Barbara   December 15th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

caylee,did not deserve to die,especially for the simple fact that her mom wanted to go to her boyfriends house,why wasnt she allowed at his house,who the hell is he,wanting to screw mom but the daughter wasnt welcome!doesnt caycee know about family shelters,her daughter would have been very welcome there so evidentially she wanted to party more than be a mom. im still confused about when she left is it the night of the fight or the day after fathers day,when exactly was the fight with cindy and caycee?has anyone asked caycee why didnt she buy diapers at target?since she had no job has she been asked where she was going every damn day!where the hell was caylee during this period also?i really wish i could speak with this evil person caycee!she doest deserve to live,even if she tells what really happened to caylee,im sure she does know what truth means,wow who raised this animal?oh yea cindy and george,animal........

AM Deist   December 15th, 2008 10:32 pm ET

It is amazing how this story has been in the news for months. Nancy Grace seems to think this is the only news in America. It will be great when the facts are know, the speculation stops, the trial occurs, and we can put this behind us. There are much more pressing problems in this country than this story. Kids are killed and abused in America every day. Stop with the sensationalism already!

magnolia   December 16th, 2008 12:32 am ET

This case has been so horrific from the beginning, knowing from the beginning that Casey was guilty, why all of the media coverage of everything they did or said. Cases like this sadly, are all too common. We however, never hear about them, the police never follow up, people do not come for miles to search for all these sad cases. I have not one ounce of sympathy for Casey and I am offended by all of the special treatment, money, free lawyers, media time ...She has done nothing to help find this poor lovely child , nor has she even shed a tear for Calley only for herself. If she was not attractive,and seductive do you really think she would have gotten all of the extra benefits, you can be sure of it. I just pray that she spends the rest of her life, alone and at some point have some sort of remorse for what she has done to that innocent child...to go online and check to see the best way to break her darling daughters neck is beyond sick,not to mention premeditated..I just pray that as Calley is not going to be found alive, I just pray the precious little girl can be found and layed to rest in peace. God will then love, protect this dear child.Think of all the other children that are murdered,neglected abused in this country and maybe this will open some eyes but I doubt it, it is up to us on a State level to fight for our children!!!

LiL   December 16th, 2008 8:04 am ET

#1. What kind of grandmother waits an entire month to check on her own daughter and granddaughter that she claims to love so much. If you have been watching the news, you'll see that the Anthony's didn't have a problem upon returning home for their dogs.
#2. In the picture of Caylee with her great grandfather, you can see that she is afraid of being with her mother or grandmother. She is hanging on to her great grandfather as if she already knows her fate.
#3. Why did Cindy wash the clothes? (not to mention the story about the pizza)?
#4. Upon watching the prison videos, you notice that Casey tells her mother, "don't worry I haven't said anything; after her mother tells her they forgive her for what she has said". Then in the same video you notice Cindy telling Casey about the drums in Zenida's apartment?. She goes on to mention the picture of the drums in her apartment. How would Casey know this? She doesn't know anything about her so called nanny. (no phone number, no address, no nothing) so how would she know about any drums? Anyone can see that this is code language; she is sending her daughter a message. Investigators; check it out.
#5. This precious little girl's name is: Caylee (if you notice:one half is for Casey, the other is for Lee? Has anyone checked out who the real father is? (Lee just may be more then the Uncle). (possible motive)
#6. Has anyone checked out to see if their was a life insurance policy for Caylee? (possible motive).
#7. Who do we know in our live's that would be willing to go to prison and be charged with the death
penalty, to " so call, protect the family".
#8. The things that Lee picked up in front of the Anthony home was unacceptable. This is a Memorial,
a Memorial of "Hope". It just prove's one more thing; that their is more then one person with
knowledge of what happened to Caylee.
#9. Now Casey needs a sedative?, a psychologist? It seems to me that this action would have happened the very day little Caylee went missing.
#10. Did she not know about the Law that states "that any unwanted baby or toddler can be left safely in a hospital, fire station, or school without any repercussions?" No questions asked. What about dialing 911? Speed dial?

Where is it written, that a parent can decide when and when not to be a parent?

Casey Anthony is not insane by no means, what she is not, is human. The Law books need to change, this case needs to set an example, and stress to all parents, what will happen should they ever decide to do harm to their children. There has got to be Justice for Caylee. God has just given her, her wings; now it's for the Law to set her FREE.

"God Bless you Caylee Marie Anthony", I love you.

Sharon Tinsley   December 16th, 2008 8:12 am ET

My theory is that the day Casey had the fight with her mother and George last saw them leave the house that Casey went to her boyfriend's house. Since she did not have a babysitter due to the argument with her mother she choloroformed Caylee, put tape on her mouth in case she woke up crying, and placed her in the trunk so noone would see her. That would explain why she didn't appear upset while at Blockbusters renting the movie. When she woke up the next morning she discovered that Caylee had died. Remember in the beginning it was reported that she had "frantically" tried to contact her mother and father on their cell phones but never got a return call. I think she then panicked and didn't know what to do and eventually threw her child in the woods by her house, made up the story about the "nanny" and the rest is history.

Connierobles   December 16th, 2008 9:22 am ET

I have been following this story. I remember Cindy making a comment awhile back about finding some fowl smelling clothes of Caylee (which I believe she washed). Then caylee making the comment Some time last week making the statement they haven't even found her clothes yet. When was the grandma's comment made? I believe that would give a better estamated time when Caylee was placed in the woods. I do have a concern that Cindy may not have anything to do with what Casey did to Caylee, but I believe she does know about this then what she Said. I think the Grandpa is clueless about what happened.

Laurie516   December 16th, 2008 11:11 am ET

"Zanny" is street slang for Xanax. I'm sure that's what Casey used to subdue her child (along with the duct tape & chloroform) so she could stay out all night partying without her nosey mother's interference. Once the kid died, Casey had to find a viable name to fit her lies about a "nanny" named "Zanny."

Phyllis   December 16th, 2008 11:14 am ET

WHERE is the father of Caylee Anthony??? I haven't heard one word mentioned about him!! Does the mother even know???

LINDA   December 16th, 2008 11:56 am ET

I THOUGHT I SAW DR.G AT THE CRIME SCENE. IS SHE PART THE MEDICAL EXAMINER ON SCENE. I HOPE SO...

Me   December 16th, 2008 12:10 pm ET

This woman is no doubt freaking crazy ... this crime was premeditated. When the woman (and you know it was her) looked up on the internet: neckbreaking, missing children and lets not forget the chloroform, there is no doubt she is GUILTY!!!!
AS GUILTY AS THE SIN SHE COMMITTED!

I have never known how I really stand on the death penalty, but if anyone deserves it, it is CASEY ANTHONY! Can you even imagine a precious, innocent little 3 year old being killed by her own mother... SICK SICK WOMAN!!!
And lets talk about her family ... COME ON ... are they nuts too? Seriously, this was your grandbaby who was murdered... You still stand by your daughter? WHAT? No way! Casey Anthony needs to feel just as alone as Caylee did when she committed this awful awful crime... She wasn't insane ... she premeditated this entire scheme!!!! CRAZY!

Albert Franco Jr.   December 16th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

I know it looks bad for her but we can't assume anything, remember innocent until proven guilty, but we as society seem to always think the other way guilty until proven innocent. Things are not always as they appear to be.

Caren Lee   December 16th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Any mother who would wait 5 days to report their small child missing is definately quilty of something..either the having knowledge of what happened to her or the actual murder..either way a terrible needless loss of life.

Debora Ireland   December 16th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

I don't think that the length of time before the child was dumped is going to be significant to a jury. When her dad tried to get in the trunk–was that on the 18th?– Caycee demonstrated knowledge of guilt. This is one nasty woman. I can see a fight with her mom leading her to get back at mom in the worst way possible. Does anybody else remember early interviews where mom Cindy says that Caysee went off for a month to bond with Caylee, and a Myspace listing where Cindy talks about Caysee being jealous of the grandparents' love for their granddaughter? Perhaps all these paid self-styled expert witnesses are going to be very necessary, to save the Mom murderer from the death penalty. (She just hasn't exhibited any signs of insanity, unless you want to count extreme selfishness.) I am certain that the prosecution has much more evidence we haven't seen, and I could convict on capital murder on what we have so far. It has seemed that in early trials these very same experts only come out in the defense of the very guilty. And, by the way, why are these potential witnesses allowed to talk to the press? We need a rule where, if you intend to be an expert witness, you cannot speak publically until the trial has gone to the jury.

Debora Ireland   December 16th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Why are all these expert witnesses allowed to speak freely with the press? Are they intentionally trying to taint the jury pool? How about a rule that any one expecting to testify must remain silent until that testimony is given and the trial has gone to the jury?

Jinx   December 16th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

I'm not sure the defense will go with insanity. The fact that Casey covered this up and lied about what happened shows she knew right from wrong. It would be very difficult for a jury to accept she was insane at the time of Caylee's death and then became sane shortly afterwards – at what point? When she was in Blockbusters? When she was partying? No, I think the defense will continue to go with the nanny theory: Casey left Caylee with the nanny, the nanny must have done this.

sheryl from Lousiana   December 16th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

It appears to me that if the prosecution that can prove Caylee was in the mothers car trunk dead. Caylee has never claimed the nanny stole her car or had keys to her car.

This is an opinion not a judgment. I only want Justice for Caylee. I want her to know that I care what happened to her and the people responsible for her death get punished.

I would like to see truth in the judicial system.

The allegations that the CSI would contamiate a crime scene to implicate the mother is not very intelligent of the defense. Casey Anthony is not that smart and therefore, the evidence would probably have her written all over the evidence and crime scene.

I feel like the media has not influenced my decision over her innocence or guilt. The actions of the defense teams and the reactions and actions of the mother tell more than the evidence.

NYPrincessTt   December 16th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Laurie516- I have thought that a few times myself. Was "Zanny the Nanny" really Xanax that Casey gave Caylee to subdue her so Casey was free to party? Maybe she lost her hook up for the xanax, which is when the chloroform came into play. I think that the saddest part of this whole case is that the entire truth will probably never be told by all involved. My parents would stand by me no matter what, but they would also be on my ass to tell the truth about EVERYTHING and stop wasting people's time and money. I can't condem them for sticking up for her, but they didn't really stand up TO her at any point and say "enough with the code language and lies. We want some answers now." Makes you wonder what the real truth is, considering we will probably never know...

Deanne   December 16th, 2008 6:00 pm ET

I think that cindy kinda blames herself because of the fight she had with caysee the last time she saw her granddaughter and feels deep down inside it was her fault that her daughter caysee snapped and did what we all know she did to caylee, thats why she's doing all the things that is clearly obstructive to the investigation and she also kinda likes the spotlight too. But I really feel sorry for george anthony because he seems to be surrounded by, Lord forgive me, nuts,liars murderers and very narcissistic people that happen to be his family. He seems to be the ONLY normal one.

Tom Kat   December 17th, 2008 8:50 am ET

Sheryl, I agree with you. Remember though, while our court system is set up to search for the truth, that is not the job or objective of a defense attorney. Their job is to place reasonable doubt in the minds of the jury by what ever means possible, whether it be comparison of facts, or unfortunately in too many cases, distortation of the facts. Fortunately, in most cases, jurors recognize that these are ATTORNIES, one of the lowest rated profressions by the general public, and the jurors use good logical reasoning in reaching their decisions. Yes I know, Attornies are necessary evils.

Amber   December 17th, 2008 11:55 am ET

What horrifies me the most is that people are going by what the media is telling them and taking that as evidence. This woman may be guilty, however, she will not get a fair trial because of people like many of the ones on here. The media is not a forensic expert that has examined the evidence from this case. They are not Crime Scene investigators, or computer forensic technicians. They are reporters. The media calls it as they see it. So many people forget that. Sure based on the "evidence" that the media CHOOSES to show you, she is guilty. I do personally think she is guilty also, but I am only going by what has been fed to me on the cable news networks. I look forward to the trial because that is when all of the dirty laundry will be aired and we will find out exactly what is found, and what was speculation. I think the people sending death threats to the grandparents need to be reminded of the fact that unless they are in the forensics lab themselves, they really have no clue what is going on. Do not judge, lest you be judged. EVERYONE has the right to a fair trial, whether you think they deserve it or not. I think if you landed in hot water yourself you would hope to receive the same, no?

VITO   December 17th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

DOES THE UTILITY GUY THAT FOUND CAYLEE?? GET THE REWARD:::????

Carol   December 17th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

I think the CHILD deserves a fair trial. SHE was put in COLD skanky water.

And I too hope the meter-man get's the reward!!!!

LINDA   December 17th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

I HAVE SEEN PICTURES OF DR. G ON THE SEEN. IS SHE PART OF THE MEDICAL EXAMINER ON THE SEEN. I HAVE WATCHED HER PROGRAM, AND I TRUST HER MORE THEN ANY M.E. ON THE SEEN SHE CAN'T BE PAID BY ANYBODY ON EITHER SIDE TO TELL THE TRUTH. SHE CALLS IT LIKE IT IS TO GET THE TRUTH, UNLIKE EVERY OTHER M.E. THAT IS OUT THERE. SHE WILL DO WHAT IS RIGHT FOR CAYLEE...
LINDA ORANGE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

Dena   December 17th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

I think it is dispicable that George and Cindy keep covering up for their daughter! They lived with her and they have to know what a liar and horrible person she is. She stole from them and everything. It is typical.....Just like when you hear about a cop shooting a gangbanger who has committed a crime or killed someone and the stupid family goes on TV claiming what a "good" person they were and trying to sue the cops. This is the same thing.....Cindy and George claiming what a good mother she was when they were the ones supporting Caylee (and Casey) and caring for her in their home and the stupid mother Casey was out partying and not working. Who the hell was paying the "so-called nanny?" Don't you think the grandparents would wonder how she was affording that? Casey only acted motherly toward her daughter when it suited her and got her attention. Once the child got in her way she wanted nothing to do with her. It's just sick!

B   December 17th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Look people. The facts are what they are. Professionals are investigating and have been.....for several months now. There are things that we still dont know! More evidence, and obviously LOTS more pointing toward the guilt of this individual. She IS innocent until proven guilty and everyone knows that. All people posting are only indicating whether or not THEY think she is guilty. Do you think some miraculous information will appear on the Nanny? Or maybe you think this "dad" of poor Caylee everyone seems so worried about is going to suddenly appear and explain everything to us? Who cares how the grandparents are acting, or how they've acted in the past? It's their DAUGHTER being tried for capital murder here........these poor people are freaking out right now! let's see.......um.....how are they SUPPOSED to be acting? These are the known facts:
Casey had several boyfriends within a three month period of time
Casey had NO job and therefore NO money
Casey was NOT going to work everyday as she indicated to her mother
Her mother knew Casey wasnt going to work and told her she would no longer keep Caylee while Casey runs around all day chatting it up with her friends doing nothing
None of Casey's recent boyfriends wanting anything to do with Caylee
Casey was very fond of partying
Casey was severely inconvenienced with Caylee because of her nightime lifestyle
Caylee was gone for an extended amount of time supposedly with the "nanny" according to all parties involved
Casey wanted out of her parents house
Casey was jealous of their relationship with her daughter
Casey repeatedly lied, was caught stealing and was sneaky and it was a proven pattern of behavior with her
Casey lied about when her daughter was "taken"
Casey lied about where she used to drop off her daughter
Casey lied about working at Universal
Casey lied about people she knew
Not one single person can back up anything Casey Anthony has said thus far throughout this entire ordeal. They can all, however, verify where Caylee was NOT and that's with her mother Casey. All of this coupled with internet searches for home-made death remedies, the smell of decomposition in her trunk, her disappearance for hours at a time, conflicting statements, lies to the authorities, etc.
I will give two possible conclusions:
1) Consider the possibility that given club Fusion was Casey's 2nd home – isnt it probable that she took Caylee with her to the club, sedated her & left her in the car? Grandma wasnt going to keep her, her ex-fiance was was invited out with her – so HE wasnt going to keep her either.....
2) She went to the boyfriends house with Caylee, found out all her friends were going out that night and she couldnt go. The next night (I believe) she goes to Tony's house without Caylee but no one claims to have had her. Isnt it plausible that maybe on the way over that particular night, especially given the text messages we've seen, Caylee falls asleep in the car, mom sedates her so she wont wake up crying & mom puts her in the trunk asleep. At some point the following day she goes to the car and realizes Caylee is dead.

It is also plausible that she then drove outside of the airport searching for somewhere to leave Caylee........she doesnt feel comfortable yet leaving her so she just drives around with her daughter in the trunk for 2 days until she decides exactly what to do. The car begins to stink, she borrows a shovel, backs the car into the garage and buries Caylee temporarily in the back yard. Drives around all day trying to decide what to do with her. She ultimately decides to leave her in the woods only blocks from her home. This is very common with children that have been murdered by their parents. They stay where they know....usually within 3 blocks from home. It was easy to continue proclaiming her innocence because she knew they were all searching the wrong place. Better still.....maybe Casey buried her out by the airport along the dirt road where she was spotted and went back and got her then leaving her in the woods by her parents home.
It will all eventually come out. I promise you, there will be no abductors, no Zanny the nanny, no miraculous appearance of her father, no connection to big bad czar drug lords. It will be a simple case of murdering a child that had become an inconvenience to her life. A child that she loved at one time but no longer wanted.

Vondella   December 17th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

In my heart I know Cindy is covering for Casey the guilt shows.Another Scott Peterson case Poor little Caylee wont have to suffer anymore she is with jesus.It is ashame they put tape over the baby's mouth did they smother her to death sure sounds like it.I have followed this case since day one and i believe the whole family is guilty.They all should be in jail right beside Casey the baby killer.

DENISE   December 17th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

WHERE IS THE FATHER ? I REALY BELIVE THAT THAT THE UNCLE HAS A LOT TO DO WITH THIS CASE. SOON AS CASEY WAS CHARGED WITH MUDER HE WENT AWAY. SHE SAID SHE TOLD HIM EVERYTHING. HE MAYBE THE ONE WHO DUMPED THE BODY. IT'S JUST SAD THAT ANOTHER CHILD SHOULD DIE AT THE HANDS OF A PARENT. MAY CAYLEE BE LAID TO REST.WHAT IF IT'S NOT CAYLEE? SHE WILL ABSOULUTLY GO FREE.

Nina   December 17th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

I have followed this case from the beginning. I find myself awaiting further news each day. My heart goes out to the family as this is a tragedy. There have been so many stories from so many media outlets, but the defense team as well as Cindy Anthony have courted the attention to get their side of the story told. Obviously we the public only hear what is being fed to us however any reasonable thinking person can decifer between rumor, conjecture and pure fantasy. We, the public would never had heard of this case if not for Cindy Anthony using any means necessary to get her story told. Attention seeker, positively...but more a means to an end. She wanted to find her grandchild. Who wouldn't do the same thing in her shoes. Then the story develops, rumors abound, and the defense blitz starts. Did Calley never mention a nanny to anyone, even at almost three, she would I'm sure mention someone's name she supposedly spent time with at one time or another. If "Zanny" was babysitting Calley for such a long period of time prior to this horrendous disappearance, why didn't Cindy or George know anything about her, especially as Casey and Calley lived with them? Since prima donna Casey hasn't worked in forever, why would she need a babysitter.....again, wouldn't Cindy and George know that there was no income coming in for their daughter and granddaughter? Could they have been so oblivious? Can we talk about Casey? What a narcissitic personality... she had not thought about anyone or anything unless it related or conflicted with her wishes and desires. How pathetic! and how devasting for Calley. How tragic. Does Cindy feel a measure of guilt for fighting with Casey.... who cares.... people fight and argue all the time....does not justify murder. Cindy has been her own worst enemy in this entire saga, however my heart goes out to her and her husband George. I do not have a great opinion of Lee throughout this entire nightmare. He appears as narcisistic and obnoxious as Casey... case in point, tearing down the memorial left for Calley. The memorial was a prayer of hope, a rememberance of a beautiful little girl, whether or not the remains found are determined to be Calley's, she is still missing. No judgements being made, observations certainly. I would like to see a successful conclusion to this horrific case and justice for a beautiful child.

L   December 18th, 2008 11:41 am ET

At least one person here has raised an excellent point. Whether or not Casey is guilty of murder, she has certainly shown what type of person she is throughout the ordeal. Yet her parents have not been truthful about her true nature. Undoubtedly she showed signs at an early age of the type of woman she grew up to be. As someone who has worked with scores of children for well over a decade, I cannot tell you the number of children I encounter whose behavior is out of control, yet their parents continue to insist how "good" they are. If anything, may this situation with the Anthony family be a wake-up call for parents everywhere to raise their children with love AND with firmness.

judy m   December 18th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Ever since I have been following this case. I do not remember anyone saying anything about the black woman in the back ground of some of the baby's pictures. Who is she and was she questioned? If this is their maid. How come the news reports that the Anthony's are hurting for money?

jack   December 19th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Who is more deserving of all the fame, attention and the dedication of millions of hours our personal time to speculate and watch and read the media reports; this family or Scott Peterson's?

Ang   December 27th, 2008 5:37 am ET

I dont believe the body was always where it was found in december. My theory is gt was placed there later.

Illinois   December 29th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

They know Casey claims the nanny had Caylee when Casey went on her shopping spree.She bought the glass then,Now the police have the glasses.Maybe they found a receipt or tag ,to show she got rid of the bag after the spree.I think there's more to Lee also, Why was the little girl named CayLEE?

Donna Francis   December 30th, 2008 3:53 am ET

Being that her mother borrowed a shovel from a neighbor, could the soil samples from the shovel be matched with the area where this dear little child's body was unearthed. Also, I wanted to say as people were commenting about how that bag could not have previously been found. Remember, she had a thirty two day head start. The area she dug up and placed the body under could have easily re-attached and grown over even a shallow grave of 6-8 inches. I have lived in Florida and a weeded arear like that would grow very quickly. Now comes the heavy rains and huricane and flooding. The area becomes closed off because of flooding, When the water recedes you have an unearthed child in a bag, now clearly visible to a concerned citizen who's gut told him not to give up. God bless you sir. It now saddens me to think that Caylee's only family will be sitting on the defense side, supporting her killer. Her own Mother.
Thank you,
Donna

Donna Francis   December 30th, 2008 4:40 am ET

I sincerely hope they take the death penalty off the table. It's too quick. An easy way out. The way she always takes. An IV in the arm and she goes to sleep and doesn't wake up. I think she deserves to serve hard time. Working 10 hours a day for the next 60 years. I think they should put a TV in her room that only plays the audio and video of Caylee singing "you are my sunshine" until she grows a soul. She should be put in general population. Now that's punishment. People have said that she would need to be protected in jail for what she had done. Who protected Caylee? Sometimes with people who only feel emotion for themselves, a little rough justice would hurt. I don't really think Casey woke up one day and became a liar. I believe that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Cindy was quick to change her story about the car smelling like a "dead body" uh, I mean "pizza". I would have imagined that as a child Casey probably became very good at lying because the truth would disappoint her mother. I think Casey is bipolar and Cindy as well. I also remember in one of the interrogation tapes Casey saying that her mother would never forgive her and on one other question the office pushed her on she said she was absolutely terrified. What's really sad is that as Caylee was dying (hopefully she didn't remember) what's the first thing a little one will cry for if they are scared or sick? .........Mommy

Jacqueline Young   January 3rd, 2009 9:42 pm ET

I believe this case is a total mess. I believe that Casey Anthony should "reap what she has sewn." I believe that she should be punished to the extent that the law allows. Everyone knows that she is guilty and would be considered ignorant if they believe otherwise. I turned 23 yesterday and I have 2 baby boys. One is 5 and the other is 15 months, and I couldn't imagine myself ever to be in this situation. She is heartless, and a cold blooded person. I hope that she has no chance at parol, she doesn't deserve it. She doesn't even deserve to eat anything other than the foods she dislikes for what she did to that gorgeous baby girl. My niece is three and her name is Caylee and everytime I think about Caylee Anthony, I think about this could've been my Caylee. That is if her mom was off her rocker like this, Casey Anthony, "BABY KILLER." My heart and best wishes go out to the family(George and Cindy) of this Angel, and I want them to know that thw whole of America is with them.

James from Indiana   January 3rd, 2009 9:55 pm ET

I have a few questions and a few comments.
QUESTIONS:
#1.How, if Casey and Caylee were living at the Anthony's home, did they not know about Caylee sooner and did she tell them that the she was at the beach with the nanny also?
#2.Why are George and Cindy pretending to know this nanny, when they know she never existed, and wouldn't this mean that their in on all these outrageous lies too?
#3.How is it that this woman could compulsively tell George and Cindy lie after lie and they still believe her when she says the babysitter took her?
#4. How could they go along with all of this when it's their Granbaby who's missing, and she's ONLY TWO YEARS OLD and there's NO WAY she could possibly be able to defend herself?
#5.Why is Casey so jealous that her mother loves her daughter as much as she loves her and that Caylee is all that anyone is thinking about at this time?

Donna Lee   March 4th, 2009 3:43 am ET

I have been following this case since the start. My heart goes out to
George Anthony, as he seems more of a victim than other family members. I do not want to judge Ms Anthony ,however to bring a child into this world and then take her life(if by law she is found to be guilty) I believe in the Old Testament, "an eye for an eye" and then for all the evidence that they have that led up to this childs death, it obviously was thought out, pre-meditated. The death penalty should be ON THE TABLE, as far as I am concerned. Every time they play that film of that child I cry for her, and for all the women/parents that want children and cannot have them, and for the grand parents, I pray for them. I would never ever want to have to face such, the emotional impact on their lives is and could never ever be the"I know how you feel" becasue we dont. WHat a horrible thing.
We are by marriage related to little Trenton Ducket, who disappeared back in August 07. We still have hope and prayers that one day we will find the answer to what happened to Trenton. My sister, his great aunt, died May 08(my sister) she stayed on a computer for months up until her death, tracing things and gathering all information she could to help find Trenton. We have no closure only a missing link in our family.
The only thing I can say to the Anthonys is, I pray for your peace at heart, and mind, and I pray that God blesses you with peace.
Your in my prayers and thoughts.

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