Springers found guilty of torture and child abuse, acquitted of murder

How is the juror going to find them not guilty of murder. Calista is NO longer with us, WHY?> Because her pyscho family,WHen the house was up in flame THEY never went to get her so she wouldnt die. She died because they chained her up to the bed, forbidding her to get out of danger. THIS IS RIDICULOUS! I AM DISGUSTED!they need to be tortured!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

They got away with murder.....if you drink and drive and kill some one you get manslaughter sad, sad day hope the judge gives the max.

juries dont always get it right i think they were guilty of second degree murder. the jury definely gave the right verdict on torture and child abuse charges give them the max with no parole and no consideration of "good" time

Now that you here about the order of protection, it makes you think Marsha still feared Anthony and blamed Callista when she made him angry and upset the status quo. Thus she became the scape goat for all problems!!!

i think they should get life they show no remorse

I think that the entire system set to protect our children disgraced this child her entire life. Even in her death there was no real justice. They should have been convicted on second degree murder at the least, thank god they got some kind of prison time for this. theese parents did not love this child, and i hope the same abuse and torture they imposed on calista happens to them as they rot away in the little cells they now call home. Calista can now rest in heaven and watch from above as they now will suffer......

Unbelievable! I cannot understand why this jury would not find the Springer's guilty of second degree murder. Their actions caused this little girl's death. I can only hope that the Judge gives them the maximum for torture and child abuse. This girl deserves justice!

Unbelievable...help me understand. One chains their child so she can't escape should danger arise, therefore resulting in her death. Found NOT guilty!! Well, just like drunk drivers the end result of their actions caused a death. Someone should go after the child protective services(those involved) for their inadequate handling of this case. Just like a bar tender can be held liable for selling alcohol to someone resulting in a fatal accident.

Does the judge know about the charge against Anthony from Marsha in the early 1900???????

GOOD JOB! now they get too enjoy the feeling of being chainded up that they deemed to see fit for CALISTA MAY SHE REST IN PEACE!

what a travesty, the springers should have been found guilty of 1st degree murder. calista died as a direct result of the torture and child abuse, wich they were found guilty of, so a 1st degree murder should have been automatic. thankfully though, torture carries a life sentence.
rest in peace calista.

The verdict for Marsha should have been guilty of murder in the 2nd degree because it was 8:30 am when the fire broke out and Calista was still chained to the bed. The other sisters were gone to school. Why hadn't Marsha let Calista out of bed yet? She was supposed to be "home schooling " her. Mind you this would also mean that by 8:30am Calista hadn't had breakfast but the other two girls sure did! 2nd degree murder is fitting for Marsha and because she is blind should not be a reason to go easy on her at sentencing.. guilty is guilty.

I live in Michigan . Mighigan is famous for saying there all for women and children's rights ,after a divorce i made up my mind about Michigan justice and today they proved you can kill your daughter and get away with it.
MICHIGAN IS NO PLACE FOR WOMEN OR CHILDREN,SHAME ON MICHIGAN!!!!

This evil couple may receive l5 years or life. Calista received death. Their deserved punishment will come one day when they face God.

IM APPALLED!!!!!! MICHIGAN JUSTICE! HA!!!! IM EMBARRASSED TO SAY I LIVE HERE!!!! SHAME ON THE JURY!!!! SHE WOULDNT BE DEAD IF SHE WASNT CHAINED DOWN IN THE FIRST PLACE!!!!!!!! THESE SO CALLED PARENTS WILL BE OUT IN 10 YEARS!!!! ITS OUT AND OUT MURDER!!!!!! THIS POOR GIRL LIVED A HORRID LIFE!!!!

They deserve a life sentence

My question is if a appeal is sought based on the letters Calista to her friends did the prosecution ever try to secure Calista's schoolwork or homework which could prove it was her writing? Typical parents usually keep some momentals from early childhood. If this is ever challeged could this verdict be overturned?

Wow! I can almost see them gettin off of first degree murder but they gave them the option of second. What did the jury not see? I can't believe it!!!

The Springers should have been CONVICTED OF MURDER!!! Had they not chained her to the bed she would have been able to get out of the house with the rest of the family!!!!!!!

I understand that the Springers should be punished for their treatment of Calista, but it bothers me to think that the Springers will take up space that could be occupied by 2 child killers or rapists- people who are a clear and present danger to others. Once the Springer children are removed from the home, Anthony and Marsha aren't really a danger to anyone else. I'm not certain that I want to spend tax payer dollars to confine them for life and risk that more heinous criminals may receive early release as a result of over crowding in prisons.

I seem to have heard a little tidbit about Calista being pregnant. I wonder if that wasalso. the reason for her incarceration??

I can't believe that the jury found them guilty of child abuse and torture but not guilty of felony murder. Come on child abuse and torture are felonies. Tony and Marsha discussed what could happen if Callista was chained. So, they knew what could happen, therefore they should have been found guilty of felony murder.

my husband & I have been following this trial from begining to end & we feel they should be sentenced to the max !

I have a question why wasnt the protective order that was filed in 2004 on Anthony Springer brought into evidence during His Trial???

"since i am new to the "INSESSION" channel...i am happy to say...thank God for your reporting...it shows the public...the real life tragiedies that happen... in our court system everyday...and lets people be more in tune...to what is going on around them...i,one, will never look the other way again...when there is in justice...and the innocence are at risk...like poor Calista"

I think they are guilty of First-Degree Felony Murder. If Calista had not been chained to her bed she could have gotten out of the house by herself or with help. They didn't even attempt to get her out. Clearly the dog was more important than poor Calista. They deserve to be in chains for the remainder of their lives, and hopefully it will be a long life so they see how it feels to be treated the way they treated Calista.
I am happy that Calista is now free from the pain and suffering and torture and prison she was living, although I wish she didn't have to be deceased to be free.

I think these monsters should have been found guilty of all charges. I am thrilled beyond belief that they are going away to prison for a long time. Hope the other prisoners hate them for what they did and tell them so in words how bad they are as people. I hated the dad's testimony and it looks like the jury didn't believe him nor his daughter nor his sisterin law either. They were all so mean to calsita. Hope they all reap the benefits of their actions. Interesting the family was not really there at the verdict.

Does my heart good to see them in shackles and CHAINS....

I believe the jury did what they thought was best. I believe that murder 2 would have been appropriate however, if the lawyer can get 50 to 75 years with out parole, is better then murder with paroIe. I just cant believe that neither parent showed any kind of remorse at any part of this trial. My daugther and I found tears in our eyes and didnt know Calista. This leaves me to be worried about her sisters. Wouldnt this be child abuse, mental abuse or neglect to them for not providing a safe enviroment, how do we know they didnt live each day free with out fear. How can we say they didnt live every day without fear seening, hearing, living like this. Not knowing if its was right or wrong. How are they to grow up and maybe become mothers themself. How are they going to handle their adult lifes. I believe this is mental and psychological abuse. My family now say rest in peace little one. Your spirit is free to go with god. God bless you

The verdict was a bit surprising to me but at least they were found guilty of abusing and torturing Calista. I hope the judge gives them the maximum of 75 years. That is the least that can be done to punish the Springers for all the agony and hell they imposed on this beautiful girl.

They should get life and that bull that is murder. I have a dog and a son he comes first!

I am stunned! I cannot believe that either of the Springers were convicted of a murder charge or even a lessor charge for that matter. I understand that there was a lot to go over, but I am Not satisfied. I would of truly pushed for guilty on all counts! Can anyone at least advise me of the initial proceedings about how everyone but Calista got out of the home while on fire??

I have watched many of your trials and have on several occasions been swayed by the defense, even compation for the defendants, but the Springer trial infuriated me from start to finish. I fell no sorrow or compation for either of them. They deserve every moment the receive in prison.

Marsha's not smiling now is she.

It's a terrible shame that the Springer's were NOT found GUILTY of murder in the first degree because had they not CHAINED Calista, she may have had an opportunity to get out of her bed and bedroom and therefore, would be alive today. These are the WORST excuses for 'parents' I have ever run across. My mother was HORRIBLE, VERY ABUSIVE AND SADISTIC so I lived through the anguish of abuse all my childhood years – actually I had NO CHILDHOOD due to being made to do all the housework, ironing and kitchen duty until I ran away to get married at the age of 17 years. My heart breaks for Calista and the Springer's should have been found GUILTY of MURDER for causing her death. They deserve a minimum of 50 – 75 years because as I understand it, if they are given 'life', they would be able to get out of prison in 15 YEARS – that is not enough time considering what they did to Calista.

I am sooooo happy that they were found guilty of Torturing Calista. Though I wish they would of been found guilty of murder as well, I think the Jury made the right decision based on the facts of the case and the elements of the charge. 1st degree murder simply could not be proven. Just glad to see them convicted for torturing Calista. They tried to smear this poor child trying to justify their sick behavior. Calista had not a friend in that house. My heart cries for her but I know she is safe in God's hands now.

Guilty, guilty, guilty

Neither of them will be smiling for a long time. They both now will have along time to think about what has been done to Calista. I truly hope there is no mercy in the sentencing.

To Carolyn Compton...

The reason everyone got out of the house during the fire except Calista is because she was chained to her bed. They saved themselves and left her there to die. (so sad).

Vinnie, Alan, and Mike,

There are still some individuals that contributed to the environmnet that killed little Calista that have not faced justice yet. What do you think might happen to the enities that did not protect Calista from the abuse she suffered for years prior to her death? Will this be another white collar justice case, with no others being held accountable? My heart goes out to the other two children and families affected by this sad story. My prayers are with all involved.

John

The vertict now reflects the prosecutors decision not to question the defendent.

I think that charges should have also been filed against the CPS (Child Protection) Agency. They were negligent and should also bear some accountability for the tortorous death of this poor girl.

I also agree with some other folks here that they should have at least got convicted of 2nd Degree murder.

It bothers me that these two people are allowed to sit there and hold each others hand and comfort eachother while standing trial for murder, I think it's sick and wrong. They should be seated away from eachother and take their punishment alone.

I think the Springers should be charged with all charges, but if not murder, then atleast child abuse and torture. Good for the jurors for comming to this verdict. Send them to jail for life, they don't seem to feel sorry whatsoever for poor Calista's death!

This is so crazy! How could they not convict them of first degree murder? I personally believe they need capital punishment! – have watched this day in and day out for the past two weeks and don't understand the jurors decision! This lil girl could still be alive

I cannot believe that there is a comment here that states since there not or no longer considered a danger because of the other 2 children now being out of the home?? That is like saying NOT GUILTY on all charges! Believe me it worth my tax money to put any child offenders in prison.

cant they still be brought up on manslaughter as they were not tried for that and therfore does not go by the double jeopordy cause

the springers applied the chain that led to calistas death i cant figure out why they are not guilty of murder........

tho i 'think' they are guilty of 1st degree murder i did not expect them to be convicted of that charge as BARD is pretty strict. I had hoped they wld be found guilty on 2nd degree. theres a lot of talk about 'intent'. for me, they even discussed by tonys testimony that if there were a fire that could be a problem for calista but not 'inconveniencing marsha' was clearly of more importance. bottom line, they intended to chain her to a bed and do what they want regardless of dangers like a fire. is that not intent saying 'she may die and i'm still going to do it'??? torture and abuse absolutely. look at everything that had to be held out of the trial. the abuse report marsha filed which was so detailed. her retracting it, classic abuse. but she still did nothing to save calista & was 100% aware of what they were doing to her. i know about abuse and the ONLY time i stood up for anything through all those years, was in protection of my stepson. his father cld do anything to me, but when it came to his child i fought him to the point he knew if he ever touched him, he wld not see the light of day. bottom line, abused ppl usually cant stand up for themselves, but have the ability more often than not to stand up for the children to the point of taking the hits yourself. they made their choices. and i believe they shld get the 70 years+. they shld not be allowed to influence their other children and tony springer, u have not shown one ounce of remorse or love for that child and i feel none for u. i hope u r never allowed to be out in society again to effect anyones lives with yr attitudes, words.. anything! marsha, u knew. u r a mother. if u r vacant of natural motherly instincts to any child, yr own children wldnt be saved either. yr only thought thruout is of yrself and yr inconveniences. the one thing obvious to all is that there was a child who lived 16 yrs, having problems, but thruout everything.. all she wanted was LOVE, kindness, help.. anything! 16 yrs tony wants.. OMG!!! its biased??!! this man is purely evil. no remorse no heart and stilllll nothing for his daughter

ASK VINNIE OR RYAN

Why are they still allowed to hang on each other?

_Lisa, BHC, AZ

No murder! Shameless – should have been a slam dunk. As for the sentences to be handed out – they should be sentenced to the max available and chained to their prison bunks 24/7 and not given free access to water to drink like they did Calista. Oh no, for them that would be considered cruel and unusual punishment. How come when these perps do these kinds of things to the victims it's not considered cruel and unusual but when it comes time for them to face the music they all whine about how cruel it would be for them to face the same thing they did to their victims??? Double standard do you think??? I sure do. I hope they live a long life and spend it behind bars. Marsha's sister should do some time too, what a witch!!

There goes the "judge", blaming social services. That's not where the blame lies. No excuses, these slobs should have been convicted of murder. How dare they be able to breath fresh air, after letting their daughter suffocate to death in the smoke. I don't even think they tried to save her.

God had to take Calista from those evil monsters. The community failed this child and so many others. May Calista rest in peace and may those poor excuse for parents rot in their jail cells. Now tables are being turned, being "chained up" like an animal, at least they will be fed. Those people didn't say not one good thing about this child. The father took out his anger for Calista's birth-mother out on Calista and his wife joined in and didn't stop it.

BTW.... what were all those condoms doing in that room with the zipties.. if not child molesting, did they have sex in that room??? disgusting and wrong as well!!

I think that EVERY adult whom admitted to knowing about the ABUSE should get charged with something too. They could do community service hours for one year or something. We owe it to our children to protect them!

GUILTY! GUILTY! GUILTY! I think Mr Springer is a good combination of evil and ignorance. I am so glad to see them in chains and jailhouse attire. Marsha Springer is no better. I think life in prison is an appropriate sentence. I should hope they enjoy their chains,

Am I the only one who wants to shake some sense into these people? All Anthony is doing is going on about himself and telling the judge how to do his job – NOT ONE WORD about Calista! Just appalling! It's bad enough they literally got away with murder, but to be so smug at sentencing even after being convicted of torture and child abuse? I am speechless...

I cant believe they werent found guilty of murder... Im sorry but just because you think you had a bad life gives you know right at all to Chain your daughter to her bed.... I think they should be chained to their bed.... Let them see how if feels.... No matter what a child does you should never chain them to a bed.... Child services should not have aloud this and those that did should be fired and put in jail and chains too.... Grrr it makes me mad a sad to see this happen to a child.....

If this isn't 1st degree murder what is??? They tortured her & chained her to the bed so she couldn't escape then set the house on fire. This is pre-meditated murder. They planned it. This judge & jury & need to be tried for competency. The parents are deranged maniacs. Justice for that poor child. Please reconsider.

They deserve life in prison! She is chained to the bed while the other kids are in school. Then there is a fire, and no one knows the cause of this fire? Lies! This fire was set. It is obvious this was a murder! The father was behind this fire.

The judge said no comments from the crowd, Marsha's sister is sitting behind Tony's mother and is saying things, I think Tony should close his mouth, its over.

to see the emotions of the springers during the sentencing is also appalling. their was little or no emotion shown throughout the trial concerning the death of calista, yet while thier lives are being threatened they are all sorts of emotional...disgusting, and i hope the judge gives them the maximum time possible.
rest in peace calista.

TO : Nik in Texas

I kinda of figured that, but wasn't sure.. That is truly sickening..I do thank you for helping me realize a sad truth.

IF I WERE THE JUDGE IN THIS CASE, I WOULD SENTENCE MR. SPRINGER TO AT LEAST 25 YEARS AND HIS WIFE TO AT LEAST 18 YEARS. There is good reason to go beyond the normal 15 ear maximum guideline.

Everyone needs to understand how the law reads. In order to find the Springers guilty for murder the Chain had to cause the death of Calista. The law reads "Its not enough that the Chain made it POSSIBLE for Calista to die, it had to be the Natural or Necessary cause of her death." The fire was, and there was no evidence that the Springers started the fire. It's easy to say from our hearts that they killed her but the law doesnt allow you to deliberate with your heart and personal feelings, you have to take the law as it is given to you.

The very FACT that Marsha Springer made NO EFFORT to release Calista at the first smell of smoke should prove her GUILTY of Murder by reason of purposeful disregard. The Springers kept Calista drugged and chained to avoid having to deal with her – as shown that Marsha was up and doing housework with the child still in chains. Guilt of Child Abuse and Torture are obvious and undeniable. As the jury could not validate Murder – my only hope is that the Springers are at least sentenced to the maximum of Life without the availability of parole. (If nothing else, to protect their remaining two children from their cruelty.) As for Calista – although, maybe still not ideal, she had a better chance for survival with her birth mother.

I agree with the Prosecutor – I think the fire was intentional. It's ludicrous to think Marsha could have taken that vacuum apart and reassembled it if she couldn't deal with harmful objects being locked. I hope they get maximum sentence.

I have watched this entire trial and the one thing that has consistently stuck out in my mind is that Anthony Springer has come off as being all about himself. This case wasn't about Anthony "Tony" Springer it was about a little girl who was defenseless against the actions of her parents. I think the State of Michigan should be ashamed that they didn't remove Calista or any of the other children for that matter from the Springer home...........This is obviously a case where the very system that has been set up to protect children like Calista worked against her this time and for that she paid the ultimate price......Her life. Mr. Springer if he deserves such a title is sick and deserves whatever he has coming to him.

Yet another case where CPS didn't do their job. Another child is dead. Killed by sick, evil parents. They both should be tortured, shackled until sentensing. An animal has more rights in the USA. I am horrified at the jurors decision.

how dare the springers attorney ask for as little as 16 yrs? the age the calista was. what an insult to what little life that child had. how about a year for every one that calista wont be able to enjoy? a year for every one that was stolen from her? and not even a "i'm sorry" or "i miss calista" from the defendent? they shouldve been convicted of murder. i cared for a special needs child and never ever in my mind wouldve considered restraining with a dog choke coller. the horror!!!!!!!!

I did not agree with the jury not finding either of them guilty of murder 1 or 2; and was deeply upset with this. I almost spilled my coffee all over me screaming at the TV again !

BUT !!!!! I am so VERY glad that they were found guilty of abuse and torture and that made me feel a little better with the jury's decision.
I was hoping that they were going to get life on the torture but I did worry that if they did they could get out on early parole. I just heard Vinnie's conversation with the prosecutor explaining why he did not ask for life and I totally agree with him when he asked for the max. of years that they would most likely serve all of them.

I hope they serve EVERY SINGLE DAY in pain of remembering what they have done to this innocent little girl and the knowledge that the other 2 girls have been taken away from them because of their actions and decisions in their treatment of Calista.

I can only hope that Courtney sees how wrong HER part in Calista's treatment was and can now learn and grow to a more decent person.
I have the same hope for Heather since I know she was there and went along with all this.

Calista is now out of her prison of abuse and torture from her so called "family" and I hope she is looking down on us saying "Yippee" at least they were found guilty of SOMETHING !!!!!!!!!!

As much as I would have liked to have them receive the murder charge, I agree with the jury. Even though the Springers knew that this could happen, there was no actual evidence that they intentionally tried to kill her. I think the PA should have charged them with a lesser murder charge. They were negligent in her murder.

Listening to Anthony Springer talk today, makes me think that he has something mentally wrong with him. Such hatred and controlling. Teasrs, and then wham no tears. He has problems! If he tries any of this in prison, I have a feeling he is going to be in a fight or two right out of the shoot.

I hate to hear what Marsha has to say! I feel the only reason she is crying is because she won't be able to do what she wants. Not about the Angel Calista.

Just when I thought Anthony Springer couldn't be more hateful & repulsive, he opened his mouth & proved me wrong. I can't believe what I am hearing!! HE is a victim?? There is no punishment strong enough for this pathetic excuse of a human being!! And he's STILL talking!!!!

The defendant Anthony Springer makes me sick at my stomach. He can't accept that he is a demon. He is putting the blame on everyone else. He has yet to take responsibility and say " I am sorry." If the sweet little girl who was so troubled that they had to "chain" her up....they should have put her up for adoption. God have mercy on his soul.

He is calling out this list of agencies that could have helped him with his child, but don't you have to take that first step towards seeking their help? Taking her out of school doesn't show that they were seeking any help, they were trying to conceal the abuse that Calista was suffering at their hands.

They got away with murder!!

omg....the light bulb just went off....Tony said he paid for his fathers mistakes...his mother saw him as his father....To all the professional people out there..the new syndrome...Tony did to Calista what his mother did to him...it does NOT excuse what he did...in my opinion he seems to be an educated man...which means he DOES know the difference between right and wrong...as a victim himself he has no control...doesn't see that he is doing to his child what was done to him. Calista paid for his disdain for her mother....there is the chain in the cycle that needed to be broken...as wrong as he was he repeated what was done to him. Instead of confronting his mother with his feelings he took it out on his daughter just as his mother did to him. We as human beings do this kind of stuff and dont even see it, in my opinion Marsha was just as guilty because for her own reasons...she herself was able to vent her anger and frustrations out of poor Calista as well.

OMG, I can't believe the arrogant Anthony springer talking at his jury, blaming everyone except his wife and himself. hard to watch.

Anthony needs to get off the soap box. He is blaming everyone else but him and Marsha. He has yet to show remorse, he has yet to say I loved Calista and I'm sorry I chained her up for years and she had a horrible life because of me. He is now showing his true colors. He is an arrogant, self absorbe male. SHUT HIM UP. No one wants to hear from that S O B. I just want to see him from the back, handculfed and off to prison.

Was the jury even present in that courtroom? They got away with murder. What a miscarriage of justice!! Calista could not even get justice in a court of law. It's now open season on children.

What was Mr. Springer talking about when he said there were false claims of sexual abuse?

NO REMORSE! PLEASE, the only blame here is on the parents themselves. No one else lived in that home but the Springers. There is always help. Money should NEVER be an issue with your children. Sacrifice! If he loved his daughter and Martha also then they should of stopped at nothing to assist in Calista's health and welfare. Tony can go on and on about what Calista did or did not do but Tony will never assume any blame with his narcissism personality.

OMGOSH!!! I can not believe this idiot! How in the world can he sit there and blame everyone else? How in the heck can he say that he has a victim too? He is a disgusting jerk! I wish they would chain him up and set him on fire. Very, very ,very ,sad , not once did he say he was sorry his daughter dies , not once did he say he loves/loved her, not once did he show remorse. What a disgusting excuse for a human! I hope he get the MAX! ANd how dare his wife sit there and cry now? She did not cry the whole trial and now she wants to cry b/c she is getting sentenced? Just a bunch of animals!

Is it just me or does Anthony Springer's statement seem totally fake? He seems anxious to blame everyone else for the situation, except himself. And the "fire escape plan" they had in place, not once did he mention how they would get Calista out of the house, nor did they have a working smoke detector!

My last question is this....why were they not charged with Criminal Negligence causing death??? Although there can be hefty sentences for abuse and neglect, it seems like a slap on the wrist to me!

Calista was everones punching bag...

This poor little girl... her dad has last words and all he can say is that they MIGHT have been wrong and his daughter is the one that had the problems.. also funny today Marsha (stepmom) actually has tears. This little girl is gone today .. YES because she was tortured and if she wasnt being tortured she would have been able to get out the house when it was on fire. So this seems like MURDER to me. I hope they get life sentencing .. but they will have to answer to someone higher one day when God comes back

I am sure that Marsha kept her mouth shut... she is obviously going blind...he had everyone right where he wanted them

Anthony Springer, in his statement to the court says he only abused Calista when he had proof that she had done something wrong. His criteria for proof regarding the broken syringes was, "well, the dog didn't do it!" Give the abuser 99 yrs., maybe while he rots in jail he can think of perhaps apologizing to his daughters, both dead and alive.

WHY? This jury knows that she couldn't get out of that choke collar! How is that not MURDER! These people are GUILTY on all chareges! they have no sympthy, no remorse for anything they did to this poor girl! These people will get it in the end! Karma always comes around!

OMG! Now i'm listening to Anthony Springer addressing the court! I hope he didn't write for Marsh when she speaks! Nothing but blame to other people and attacking his mother like that was uncalled for and quite frankly not relevant! He is wasting time and not even talking about how sorry he is and how much he'll miss Calista. How he hopes the court will sentence him within the guidelines so he can still spend time with his other children and hopefully his grandchildren. Something to that effect. I don't think he should ever be around children again but I'm a tough ole egg! The judge already knows what sentence he's going to impose, I just hope it is the 50-75 years as the people will ask for. I'll keep watching

Oh my gosh how in the world could they find they NOT GUILTY ON MURDER, I don't care what the jurors's say the reasons are.... Even at the end they never ever once say, I or We loved Calista, no they cry for themselves never once for Calista...
If Marsha is so blind where are glasses or any other form of vision help??????? I am concerned legally blind without some sort of vision help.... It is an excuse an a act for hopefully pity....

Anyone agree with me that in addition to their time in prison, they should wear a chain or the same chain around there necks as a constant reminder of being child killers??

I feel neither marsha nor anthony springer showed any remorse. everyone is to blame but them. HogWash! I feel they should have gotten life and death on killing calista, on all account's. if she hadn't been chained up she would have escaped the fire, instead lying in a grave yard. they claim they did so much to get help, how about give her to her grandmother that loved her and cared for her as a person? God Know's what happen and trust this! He will show his rath to both marsha and anthony on judgement day.

Keep in mind...even in the most severe of cases where people are determined criminaly insane....they don't chain people up!

How the jury acquitted these monsters of murder is unbelievable,yet we hope they get the max of LIFE for torture and child abuse.

How dare Anthony Springer claim that he and his wife are also victims,and yet he blames DHS and every other agency that it was there vault that their daughter Calista died.

How dare Anthony Springer plead that his prior criminal history should not be taken into consideration upon sentencing.

These "so called parents" should be sentenced to life...chained to the bunks...!!!

I am really at a loss for words here.
I am sitting here watching the sentencing of two people that don't have a clue.
I hope that these two so called loving and caring parents get the max. time a loud by law.

Their daughter is dead but it is everyone elses problem not theirs?
GIVE ME A BRAKE!!!!!

Their two other children are in foster care and I say THANK GOD!!!
I just hope that they receive the therapy that they need ,and come to understand just how crazy their life with their parents really was.

I am just numb.

Now the father is saying she was just a little part of a bigger event...blame on everyone....He just doen't get it...Who chained her up you crazy sick man!.....No remorse, Give him the MAX ! Chain him down!

They cry for eacher other .But they dont cry for calista .she is with father now and not in pain .she was good child not ther.

Now he is adding that DHS did nothing to stop us. Are you friggin kidding me. This guy juast doesn't have a clue...

I heard people say that the chain wasn't the cause of death, it was the fire....HELLO the chain prevented her from getting up and running...I have a feeling that if you chained each one of those jury members to a bed and lit a fire under them.....................they might see things in a whole different light

Did hear Anthony Springer say "I probably didn't punish Calista enough"??? He doesn't have a CLUE.....

If not but for...If The Springers had not chained her to the bed she would not have died. That equals murder in my book if the mom who is legally blind made it out of the burning house along with the family dog, surely Calista would have made it out. Anthony is a jerk, he blames everyone but himself. Calista is a lot better off. She is at peace and smiling now.

I believe these parents should get life sentence because I'm hearing his sentencing statement and he is still not showing any remose. He does not get that no matter who didn't want to help him with his daughter that it was his responsibility to keep her safe. He wants people to feel sorry for him and his wife but not once did he say that he feels sorry form his daughter or that he will miss her. May god gave mercy on both of them!

Btw! anthony springer! The school wasn'tt a babysitting agency, they were there to teach that child not to do ur job as a parent. ur child is in a grave yard because you and ur wife try to hide the fact, you were abuseing that child more way's then we all can imagine. Why blame the system for you and ur wife being lousey poor excuse's for being parent's? Get a Grip!

Would like to have seen the option of manslaughter, hopefully these sad exscuses for humans will get the max for the torture conviction. I also would like to know more about the used condoms and zip ties in the trash.

what century does he think this is....Middle ages....chain up the mentally ill...!.Ha! No choice?....she would have been better off in a Mental Instituion!

Once again, my prediction is...one day in the very near future, we will know the truth...I wonder which of the Springers will be the first to write a book and tell of the horror that went on in that home.

When are the Springers going to shed tears for Calista?
So far I have seen them cry for themselves.

Poor Calista I shed a tear for you today

"rattlesnakes dont commit suicide".. is this guy serious????!!!! others denial???!!!! he cldnt institutionalize her cause she'd be alone???? but he cld cause her death? this man has NO REMORSE... ONLY BLAME.. AND the ONLY tears from either of them is at their sentencing because they dont want to be locked up.. theyre sorry for what happened??? ya that'll bring her back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i've had to restrain a developmentally disabled child at night.... it meant me getting off my duff and taking care of her.. of our family working together.. NO u did NOT try!

GUILTY–GUILTY–GUILTY on ALL counts for both Springer parents! They show no remorse for their actions. Poor Calista did not have a chance! There is alot of blame to go around tho. Thumbs up to the prosecuting attorney Mr McDonough .

At first, I was disappointed that the Springers weren't convicted of murder, because I am sure that Marsha & Tony were totally indifferent to the threat to Calista's life when chaining her down.

But as I think about it, I am glad that the verdict went down as it did. It shows that the jury wasn't holding the Springers responsible just because of the the events of the day of the fire Instead, finding them guilty of abuse & torture shows that the real crime was the horrific day-to-day life they inflicted on Calista.

I do agree with Vinnie that they are guilty of everything they were charged with, but the message of the verdict as it stands says a very important thing about the hideousness of the Springer household.

i find it so amazing that NOW that they are about to be sentanced they are crying rivers of tears!!! Where were the tears for Calista?????

they should have been found guilty of MURDER, they blame everyone but themselves for calistas death, those monsters deserve life in prison without parole , they look cute together in matching prison wardrobe and with THEIR matching handcuffs, maybe now they can feel what chains feel like. just like that poor innocent calista felt

Anthony is sitting there contradicting himself. Yes we had to use restraints and sometimes she would go months controlling her impulse behaviors, and we would say okay stay in the bed and go to the bathroom but don't wander around. I thought she was only restrained two days before the fire Anthony?! Disgusting!

I cannot believe this jury didn't convict these people of murder or manslaughter. Their actions contributed or caused the death of their daughter. I think they are mean evil people. I also think there was possibly some kind of sexual abuse going on, maybe that's why she acted out. Also all those people who testified how wonderful the Springer were are just as much to blame for this abuse as the parents and I hope they all can't sleep at night because of the lies they told and the truths they omitted.

does anybody ever think there might be more then physical abuse, ithink perhaps sexual abuse maybe with all the girls he gives me the creeps. the wife could not see it could be right in front of her and shed never know hes a sicko to me

This was MURDER, Calista was about to become a Bigger problem for her family when they moved into someone elses home. They would be unable to chain her or keep her quite in the new house. Think of her being drugged so she could not scream, the lie of the fire ext., the collectiables moved out. The time it took to burn the house before the call.

Anthony Springer is a abuser of the worst kind!!!! Typical abuser blames everyone but themselves. Its Calista's fault, its the agencies, no one helped them.....that is the biggest issue i have, I work with the mentally disabled for over 11yrs. Calista with her PDD and what ever issues she had could of becaome a asset to this society regardless of her disabilities. Maybe even independent enough to live a normal life on her own one day. These parents to me once they recieved the diagnosis of her having a mental disability she became nothing. Her abuse was also her sister's abuse also. Can you imagine being a child in that house and seeing what is being done to your sister what MENTAL and EMOTIONAL abuse all three girls suffered. As disgusted as I am with this case at least Calista is in heaven and safe, also her sisters maybe someday will be able to understand that how they lived was not normal or a way anyone should ever have to live.

More evidence of double talk by the father...You can't have it both ways...either you had an "alphabet" of agencies that were aware of what was going on with Calista and failed you OR you and your family are the only ones that knew what was going on because you lived with Calista for 24/7. Which one is it?

Does anyone know why Heather, the Springers other daughter did not testify or attend the trial? That says alot, I think.

_Lisa

hi doesanyone ever consider this might go further then phsical abuse,i think hes sexually abusing all the girls he comes off like a sicko. the wife would not even know if he was she is blind. it could be right under her nose

In no way is there an excuse for chaining a child down. Any normal parent would know that would only worsen the behavior. I agree with you, GUILY all the way.

They are both guilty!!! I am shocked at the verdict !! The system has failed the victim Calista Springer!! He now wants us to feel sorry for his wife and his self makes me sick to my stomach. They both should be tortured just like they did to Calista!! I feel they got a slap in the hand and that is just about it. Who know's what else they might of been doing to Calista who was crying out for help and seems like no one was listening till it was to late. They showed no remorse. I agree by taking her out of school was because they were afraid they were going to be found out of abuse and torture earlier then they did. Why should she ask for a glass of water anytime then be punished because she didn't ask for it. They are very cruel animals. I wish they would of gotten the death penality. Maybe in prison they will get back what they have done to this poor little girl someone in prison will pay back the old saying what goes around comes around.

ok i have not followed this story from the begining of the trials but from what i have seen i think this is a verry disturbing case and what was done to this child is completely unjustafied. but i do not think murder was the right charge for this case i have worked with children and adults with special needs for eight years now and it can be demanding and frustrating at times for a health care worker let a lone a parent who feels like they have no other way to deal with a special needs child other than to chain them up i dont understand how they could feel that was the only option i think manslaughter or negliagent homicide is a better charge than murder in this case. i was also verry upset at the fact there is only one facility in the state of michigan that offers help and living areas for developmentally disabled i live in ohio and we have several facilities through out the state overall the system that protects our children is broken through out our country we have to open our eyes and stand for the ones who can not stand for themselves how could years of abuse go on and no one see enough to save this girl from her life of hell i do not know its a sad case and should never of happened i hope they do get more than a slap on the hand but life in prison i dont think so its easy to judge from the outside but you do not know the reality of the situation enless you were there i pray for all involved and that calista rest in peace with god

Main question!!! What are condoms doing in a little girl's bedroom?
I bet , Anthony Springer was using her as a sex slave. He decided to kill her after he finished having his way with her.

Anthony Springer is clearly a socialpath ! His lack of remorse is a clear sign. I also beleive that to be tru due to the fact Marsha stated in her restraining order he was obbssessed with dead road kill. I wish I had the chance to have asked him How he knew Celista would eat anything that wasn't dead? I also would have drove home his collection of dead animals!

I am sitting here watching the springers Sentencing & Anthony Springer is a fake and a LIAR. He is acting like he is the victim! He is a minipulater he is playing the feel sorry for me role i dont feel sorry for him i hope he gets what he deserves. That little girl needs to rest in peace !!

R.I.P Calista another one of Gods ANGELS!!!

sure there's plenty of blame to go around, but at the end of day, the blame souly lies upon you, anthony and marsha springer. You two refused help in your own words because you had "a billion things going on." There you go again blaming Calista for all your problems.
You sacrificed your own daughter for your wifes comfort. Remember who was the adult in this situation, Marsha was. It seems her vision comes and goes with the convenience. (she can read tags on christmas presents but cant seem to upen a lock.

I hope the judge is doing the same thing I am...for every ten minutes this idiot speaks...I am adding a year to his sentence!!!

Now the emotion. What a disgrace.

If the judge gave them a year for each time they said something positive about their daughter, they would not get one day in prison.

Finally... tears?.
Not for Calista...but for themselves.... how pathetic!

I'm not suprised that Anthony doesn't get it, he's a bully. He can only hear himself. Marsha will be better off without him. They will not be able to speak with each other, again . I just hope the two remaining daughters can get the help they need to get it right, not become copies of their father.

I cannot believe the statement that Anthony Springer is giving! It is surreal! He's totally missed the boat and I feel he needs the maximum time allowed by law, because it seems he truly feels he did nothing wrong and he is acting like he's the victim. He doesn't get that their actions killed Calista. He is showing no remorse whatsoever. I wish he would just SHUT UP!!! He is just running his mouth and going off on different tangents that leave me thinking, "Are you for real????" He is a freak! I don't think Calista was the one with the issues. Anthony Springer is showing that he is the one with mental issues.

I have followed this trial and some of the agencies should have had charges filed on them as well since they did nothing for this girl. Her parents should get the max for all the years of abuse that they were allowed to do to this child. How this happened without any intervention is criminal.

OMG The statement of Anthony Springer he needs life..what a jerk. He is blaming everyone but him self.

the more i hear this "MONSTER" of a sperm donor plead at his sentencing for leniency, giving a self-serving speech for him and his pathetic, weak poor excuse of a wife, the more i really hope that they both get a very long time in prison. reason: to be exposed to constant danger amongst inmates for retaliation for their crime towards Calista. he is a piece of crap with no morality and his lips moving only generate more anger towards them both from me! should have been guilty of murder!

I am so glad the community treated the Springers with disgust and turned them away. How sickening their attitude is on committing this crime. I think the daughter who testified should be treated the same in the community. She acts just like her father and could care less that her own sister was being tortured and died as a result of that torture – if not for the chain...Calista would have lived! I would fear for the safety of any children that Courtney may have in her future.

As a parent...it isn't anyones responsibility to provide for my child, that responsibility is mine and mine alone. If he or she has a problem and I dont get the answers I feel in my gut...I keep looking...second third and fourth opinions are some times required. I find it to be alarming that Tony refers to Calistas mother as the egg donor..go back and read my previous posts...he hated her mother from the start and he took his aggressions out on Calista

How Can they not be charged with murder when Marsha had PLENTY of time to unchain her before she started Vacuming...And she managed to get herself and the dog out but left Calista upstairs WAITING to be unchained.....Thats MURDER in my book...

I think the jury should have went for the first degree felony murder along with the torture and abuse. It is always law vs. justice.

During the trial, Anthony Springer said they had only started restraining Calista at night about 2-3 days prior to the fire. During the sentencing phase, he stated that after restraining her for a while, they would try to go without restraining her for a few nights to see if she would stay in her bed. when she stopped staying in bed, they resumed restraining her again.
So, with that said, doesn't that contradict his statement in the trial? doesn't that show perjury? And i can't believe that he is playing it as if he and Marsha are the victims, blaming everyone else for everything. As for the verdict, i think they should have been convicted of the murder charge also, due to that if she was not restrained at the time, she would have had a chance to escape.

Ironic as it may be Calista wished to be out of her prison...in her being freed from her prison...her tormentors were condemned to theirs...god works in all kinds of ways

I just want to know, how did their animals get out, but not their daughter? Is there not something wrong with that?

Did I miss this??? Were there smoke detectors in that old house???

I am in shock at the jury's decision. Calista was murdered by her father and stepmother. I am also shocked at Mr. Springer blaming everyone but himself and his wife. If Calista was put in a home she would be alive today. This is a disgrace!

Verdict was good on abuse and torture.
I understand why felony murdeer was a stretch and wonder whether manslaughter could have been considered - or was only 2nd degree murder available to jurors?
These horrible people will not have an easy time in prison, just hope they never get out.

Springer Case–Agree with verdict–Murder not proven but as to the rest
I really can't see any other options–Torture/Childabuse–GUILTY

I think the judge should give them the max of life without parole.

I got GREAT pleasure seeing the Springers in chains. Now they know how Calista experienced every night.

They should be charged with murder! They took actions that were the direct result of Calista's death. They made those decisions and used restraints that was premeditated, which is what is required for murder.

I disagree with the "not guilty" verdict for murder. I hope they get life for the torture and child abuse charges. Did anyone try to get Calista out of the fire? And how can they say that they are not guilty of child abuse? Whenever Calista tried to cry for help, they no longer had anything to do with the people she told? I believe that there was MUCH more abuse going on than that which was brought up.

They should have been charges with MURDER. The CHAIN caused her death either way you look at it. She could not get up to escape that fire because of that chain!! They got away with it and so much more I'm sure!!!!

I do not agree with the verdict. I think child abuse Guilty, but not torture.

The evil that men do lives after them.

The Springers should have been convicted of murder also-THEY CAUSED THIS CHILD'S DEATH BY CHAINING HER DOWN. This is disgusting.

I truly believe the jury got it right. There just wasn't enough to convict on murder.

After seeing Tony's statement I can believe he had enough rage in him to torch the house because it was in foreclosure. Literally killed 2 birds with 1 stone. Hope he rots.

Tony said they were spit in front of...denied services....I wonder if that feels as bad as it feels when you have to urinate or have a bowel movement and you have to do it in your bed because you can not get up and use the toilet

The Springers should dry it up. They are guilty and should not longer live amongst a human society. I hope they feel those chains on their skin for the rest of their lives.

just another aspie showing a psychopathic side to their personality.

no empathy.

makes me sick.

Why won't you post my comments? Is there a problem or what?

Condoms were found in the waste basket along with the zip ties, it makes you wonder if Anthony was sexually abusing Calista & she finally had enough & threatened to tell, I believe that Anthony knew he was in trouble so he set the fire to start slowly so that he would be at work knowing full well that Marsha could not save Calista thus he would be home free. This man is a monster & I hope the judge will put him away for a very long time, I totally disagree with the jury's verdict & feel very strongly that they should have been found guilty of 2nd degree murder. Marsha seems to be conventiently blind but not blind enough to run a vacuum, but too blind to call 911, the fire department was right behind their house, the fire was reported by a passer by.

By taking Calista out of public school the Springer's asserted that they knew how to take care of her better than the professionals. Now, they say they didn't know what to do and should have gotten help. Sorry, you can't have it both ways.

I think the jury did a great job. I would have found them guilty on all charges. I would like to see another investagation on the cause of the fire. I believe in my soul the fire was no accident. And I am curious about the condoms found.

I am seriously disgusted. I cant believe they got away with murder! This is one case I wouldnt be opposed to the death penalty on! I am shocked repulsed and so severly disappointed. Now Anthony Springer just has me speachless.. he shouldnt even open his mouth. He is better off just sewing his lips shut and getting his vocal cords removed!

i think the jury should have got them guilty on all the charges! they are guilty the tears was a good so that they donot go to prison.

Anthony Springer shut up! Dude you got away with murder now you are proving how wrong that verdict was, you are guilty, guilty,guilty!! You murdered your daughter and you and your wife abused her...big time abuse.

Mr. Springer's speech was disgusting. He blamed everyone but himself. It is simple, as a parent it is ones responsibility to out for your child's safety in every situation. Chaining up your child in a bed is a fire hazard, and a hazard to her safety (child abuse). What would be worse, Calista getting up in the night and getting a drink of water or going to the bathroom.....or her dying in a house fire? Isn't a 'fire hazard' one of the first things on a parents mind? It is obvious that this man shows no remorse and should receive the maximum sentence.

Not only will it be interesting to see what the judge sentences these two monsters to-but what is going to happen to their other off-spring??? Not considering their mental status could also be morally wrong. These other children are going to need YEARS of mental counseling and therapy!!!

Springer Case–Agree with verdict–Murder not proven but as to the rest
I really can't see any other options–Torture/Childabuse–GUILTY–
sending a message yes –you can't resort to these measures at any time for any reason–Calista was not treated with love/compassion/under-
standing–but less than human–punishment DESERVED!!

The springers should have been convicted of all three counts of Murder,child abuse, torture. Not just the two.

The arrogance of Mr. Springer during the sentencing phase is truly remarkable. To go on & on & on and hardly ever mention the poor kid who died while chained by the Springers to her bed is disgusting. They definitely got away with murder.

As I have changed my mind since the beginning of this trial, I now feel that these two defendants were guilty of Manslaughter charges, but not murder. Also not clearly torture I don't think. I think the Judge should show some lieniency here as I think this family was also let down by the system and the community. I know he isn't a likeable person (Anthony), and he isn't fully accepting accountability for his actions, however I think a 10 year sentance is fair.

I think it is horrible what was done to this child. I am raising a child with PDD and while it is not easy by no means. You take them to the dr and get them the help they need whether its medication or therapy or both. Mine takes medicine that keeps her sleeping at night. i would NEVERv chain her to the bed. Should have gave them the max both of them Only reason they are whining now is they are behind bars and have no freedom.

I have a grandson who is autistic and I would never think of tying him down with anything. He does tend to roam the house at night but his parents will go so far as to sleep with him in order to keep him in bed.
I can't even begin to imagine what this young lady felt about how she was treated. I wonder how the parents would feel if they were chained
down to their beds overnight every night.

Also, I haven't truly seen any true acceptance of the father's part in this catastrophe. He seems to blame anyone and everyone else for what happened to Calista.

What a very tragic situation for everyone involved.

I want to know how did the fire start n how can they not be found gilty of murder they put that baby an those chain

Why is Marsha's attorney speaking in her behalf? I'm sorry is there anything wrong with Marsha's vocal cord's????? She's a coward and should be sentenced to life on all account's.

These people make me sick.....all through the trial they showed hardly any emotion. Now when they face punishment they can't stop the tears. I hope they get the max...they are guilty.

i agree with the verdict except for the not guilty on the murder charge, if calista wasnt chained to her bed she would be alive. the women saved her dog and not her child. personally i would burn to death for any of my children without any question. they need to take blame, and not blame everyone else. my heart goes out to that little angel calista.

I am in shock as to what it takes to get a murder conviction of a helpless child. There are a lot more "Calistas" out there and these parents are not the only guilty ones. I hope this brings some attention to us adults about children who reaches out for help who are considered "different" with behavior issues

Now they cry – they always do once they are convicted!
They are both overweight – why did they not share some of
that food with Calista?
They are both poor excuses for human beings.
Sandra in Texas

I think they should have been gulity of murder. I t hink that Marsha had something to do with the fire. Someone else called the fire in, she was just standing out side the house. I also feel that Tony has a personality disorder.

Both of the Springers should be kept in chains the rest of their life. I am sorry the jury did not find enough evidence to find them guilty of murder. Either way, nothing will bring Calista back.
I was also abused, mentally and physically, by a stepmother from the ages of 10 – 12. By the age of 12, I prayed for death, as I am sure Calista wished for death. Luckily, my Grandmother took me to her house to escape. Too bad no one saved Calista.
Just as she was, I was branded a liar and adults would not believe me. I believe Calista and the evidence presented at trial proves she was telling the truth. The community just did not want to get involved.
I still see no true remorse from either of the Springers – just anger and blame for the system. Poor little Calista!

i do not agree with the jurys verdict. i belive that both deserve a sentence but i belive anthony springer was the mastermind behind this unfortinate incident and should be punished to the fullest extent of which the law will allow. rest in peace calista justice will be served and your voice will be heard

It's always Marsha Marsha Marsha!!!

they should be quilty for all acounts... they left this poor child in her room chain up to her bed.. what parents whould do that to there child.. they are nothing but monsters.. and what anothony is sayin is all wrong.. i dont feel sorry for them, they both should go to prison for the rest of there life cuz they took hers and they cant bring her back..

I do believe the Springer's are guilty of murder. Not once during the whole trial or during Mr. Springers pre-sentencing speech, did I ever hear him say that he or Marsha loved Calista. It is all a blame game to him. He did finally admit they were responsible to what Calista went through. I don't feel Calista was ever loved.

I do'nt think anthony feels any guilt. He is just emotional about the verdict because he did'nt walk away free . I think he wants to blame instead of accept blame.

I have to disagree with the jury. I would have voted for a lesser degree of murder. The only REAL emotion I have seen from Anthony is when his liberty is on the line. He rambles on, blaming everyone but himself and his wife. He claims the system failed him so badly, but he and Marsha never called for help, it was always someone else calling to turn them in and have the situation investigated. Calista is the one the system failed here.

What i don`t understand is, Vinnie and Mike said during the trial that all the agencies failed the Springers and now that Anthony lashed out, now your screaming out that he just doesn`t get it ! What does someone do when nobody will help you when that`s their job to help when a child has a problem? Anthony did admit to their part and Mike needs to see that part also. Thank you.

I believe the Sringers were guilty of murder. Since they were not I hope the judge gives the maximum sentence, the evidence clearly shows that she was chained to the bed even the dog wasnt chained !If she wasnt chained she would have been likely to have gotten out of the house , She cried out for help but was unable to get the help she needed, I hope that the judge hears her cries now and justice is served here in memory of Calista.

Are you kidding me? Calista died being chained to her bed in a fire, why didn't they get charged with murder?
These so called parents are blaming everyone else but themselves. If they couldn't handle the daughter, put her up for adoption so she could have a chance at life!
Life in prison is not even enough for these parents! At least they will still be alive, unlike their daughter!

i think they both got away with murder,.they should spend the rest of their lives behind bars,. poor clista, she never had a chance..

I told you they would not get a murder convction. The state sould have went with involentary man 1 or 2; however, it would be a fail of justice if they are give any remores. They are the same as any child offender (Mark Klass why give them anything).

exactly, the chain used during the house fire is the definition of involuntary manslaughter, – where is the guilty of murder sentence also

In working with the developmentally disabled population I realize some people can be quite challenging. Mr. Springer states he would not institutionalize his daughter because he loved her. Was his daughter eligible for Social Security benefits due to disabilities? Is it possible he refused to put her some place with trained professionals so they could deal with her behaviorial issues because he loved her monthly social security stipend more. I am baffled that he refused to consider placing her in a facility that may have given her training and coping skills that he could not instill in her. Mr. Springer is obviously very self centered and arrogant and refuses to accept the fact he abused and tortured and eventually murdered his own child.

Tony said in his statement to the judge, he would gladly pay His debts, marsha's debts and even Calista's debts, what debts could calista have had that needed to be repaid, for god sakes she was tortured and abused, and where was the phrase We LOVED Calista?

i hope to god that they both get life. calista needs to rest in peace they are both evil and marsha should get no mercy. fry them both

They should have been found guilty across the board. No remorse from either one. The only remorse they have is for theirselves. And what about all the other things. Maybe she had problems due to the abuse in the home. Did anyone consider that? They took her self esteem, abused her, her hair had been pulled out in chucks, being chained, not aloud to be a kid. Haveing to urninatae on her self. What do you think that does to someone? What about her wearing the same clothes all the time. (turtle necks) why turtle necks? Not having been fed like she should have. I think the judge should lock them up and throw away the key. Justice needs to be served for Carista. God Bless that baby. And the Good Lord has her now. She wanted out and even wished to die then rather be in that house. And God did just that. He got her out. And now she is living in paradise. Happy, Free, Where she wanted to be. God bless you Carista. And justice will be served from our Lord because he is the true and righteous judge. And he knows what these people did to his child.

i'm not surprised !!!! i can still see 2nd degree murder... why was there not a manslaugther option ??? what a couple animals....am sorry calista did not get justice...

Wow, the Springers do have emotions
where were the tears when speaking about Calista ?
now the Springers want to use tears to try to influence the judge.
I hope they get the max sentence!

This is murder. The only reason Calista is dead is because she was unwillingly chained down during the fire. If my daughter was trapped during a fire, even if it was a little flame, my first thought would be to run and get my daughter out of the house, not sit around trying to put the fire out myself. Obviously Marsha was more concerned about the house than her child’s life, regardless if the child was her step daughter or not. However though Marsh is at fault, I still feel Anthony is the reason all the abuse started in the first place. He is an angry and abusive control freak. As well not to take Marsha's side (at all), but if she was not working, and living off of Anthony, even if she wanted to get out of the abusive relationship she had no money or resources to leave, in a way it is possible she could have been victim to Anthony's abuse as well.

I don't understand how this jury didn't convict them of first degree felony murder. The 2 other girls were at school and Marsha was home schooling Calista. It was 8:30 A.M. when the fire happened, why was Marsha vacuuming instead of "teaching" Calista. If she was doing what she CLAIMS to be doing by home schooling her why was she still in bed? If Marsha "loved" this poor girl she would have, for one, NEVER chained her to the bed and she should have been teaching her and when the fire started Calista WOULD have gotten out of the prison she wanted so deprerately wanted out of. THEY MAKE ME SICK !!!!!! NO parent wwho loved there child, with or with out disabilities, would chain there children to the bed. Those chain marks on Calistas body on the day of her death will haunt me forever. I say the parents need to go to jail until THEY DIE !!!!!! And I hope they suffer like Calista did for so many years.

I think it isnt fair that some information was not allowed to be admitted into court because it may influence the verdict. Well do ya think? They can use patterns for terrorists but not child abusers? Please????
condoms in the garbage can along with the zip ties? The body has been burned and they cant test for sexual abuse so we omit that because we CANT prove it? Used condoms in with the zip ties that were used to tie her down? How in the world can that evidence be denied?

I am appalled at the statement coming from Tony Springer. Absolutely NO remorse what-so-ever!! "Wah, wah wah, we're the victims...society hates us...wah wah wah...I hate my mother...wah wah wah". Unbelievable!!

Then Marsha's attorney..."she's partially blind...in prison she'll be in unfamiliar surroundings...public humiliation is enough..."

OMG!!! Unbelievable!

I hope the judge throws the book at them!!!

My wife and I adopted a special needs child after being foster parents for 14 neglected children and I can't image any defense for chaining a child to a bed or anything else for that matters. I'd give them the MAX!

Mike

The defendent lawyer is also a idiot wanting lesser charges how sick is he as well. I agree everyone who was aware of what was going on should be doing some kind of time for not reporting as helping in the result of Calista death!!! I feel no remorse for either of these animals now that they will get a sample of their own actions they plead for us to understand their cruelty I think not. I am now afraid they will not get the sentence they so deserve!!! LIFE!!! I CAN NOT UNDERSTAND THE JURY WHAT WERE AND ARE THEY THINKING???

Unfortunately, I agree with the jury finding them not guilty of murder, as no-one was able to prove that the fire was intentional, but
WHY was the jury not able to convict them of a lesser charge of manslaughter? I hope the judge gives the maximum to them both on the torture and abuse verdicts. Calista hopefully can truly rest in peace after this.

No matter how well the prosecutor did on his summation this verdict shows that he shouldn't have sat on his thumbs for most of the trial. I was appalled that he didn't even bother to cross "daddy". God only knows how many days Calista spent most of the day chained to her bed. They are both guilty of first degree murder and no amount of prison time is enough. I also don't believe that the vacuum started the fire. I believe "mom" did.

I think these poor people should never have been brought to trial in the first place. They were trying to deal with a horrific situation the best way they could. How many of us would have handled this better? The way this was presented by Court TV–or whatever you call yourselves now–was reprehensible and irresponsible. Especially good ol' Vinney. Ridiculous!

I have such deep felt sympathy for the Springer family. I never lived or cared for Calista but I know it must have been extremely challenging. How many of these people commenting on this site have ever taken care of a special needs child? I find it hard to believe that any of you have if you have these views. I am sure the Springer's made mistakes but I cannot judge them. I grew up in the home of a special needs sister and like Calista we all loved her. But she was extremely difficult to deal with on a day to day basis. It is all very trying on the entire family. Day after day becomes impossible to cope with. I think this family tried very hard to treat Calista the same as their other children. The truth is Calista wasn't the same. She had special needs and disabilities that had to be addressed constantly. Every person in every family of a special needs person endures constant abuse. They are all prisoners of that persons needs. This family has my deepest sympathy for their loss of Calista and the pain their family has endured all the years of her life.

I agree also that if you drink and drive and kill someone, you get manslaughter. What is the difference in Calista's case? Calista being chained to her bed by her parents was one factor that resulted in her death. The other factor was the fire. The parents were also aware that their actions would cause a problem for calista leaving the house if there was a fire. I am quite dissapointed in the murder charge verdict. I think the jury forgot the most important evidence...that Calista's parents chained her to the bed, and that action IS one of the factors resulting in her death. Very dissapointing.

Speaking of Tony's anger... why is he still handcuffed and Marsha is not during this sentence hearing?

Lets see a blind woman providing for three children....one of which isnt even biologicaly hers...debating if she wants to go along with this or not...Marsha took a great deal of pleasure in tormenting Calista...for her own reasons....if she was the great Mom she claimed to be she would have spoken up....she even went so far as to instruct her daughter to go along with this or else....or else what? She would lose her Mother? What would you do if you were Courtney?

After listening to Tony blame everyone but himself (his mother, Callista's birth mother, service agencies that they didn't apply to for assistance-that's on them, these people are not mind readers) I thought we would finally hear Marsha open her mouth, but her slimy lawyer is doing all the talking – about how they have been held up to public humility and have suffered enough. They are lucky they weren't run out of town on a rail!!! As for blaming everyone in the community – they did the right thing in advising the proper authorities about what was going on. To do anything else would have been breaking the law (forcibly removing Calista without proper authorization). Call me old fashioned, but I believe in taking responsibility for your own actions or lack thereof. You do the crime – you do the time!!!

I am a step mother of three children from my marriage. I was blessed with my kids because I had cancer at 23 and had to have a hysterectomy. My children had a hard life before I got them. So they had some mental and physical problems. I took them to doctors and found out what I needed to do to help them and protect them. If one of my children had severe problems that I couldn't handle, I would have put them some where to get help. I WOULD HAVE NEVER chained any of my children. If they would have put her in some place to help her (Calista) she would still be here. She wouldn't have been chained and stuck in a fire. They are to fault and no one else. If the step mother couldn't help her, she shouldn't of never had a chance to raise her. Letting the state take care of her would have been best for Calista. They are totally responsible for not getting her help for the lead poisoning. Ive watched this case and Ive seen allot of anger and hate, which is the first thing that is dysfunctional in this family. You either love your children or you don't. In Calistas case, she wasn't loved by her step mother so the actions they took were their choices. Marsha is the biggest problem. And did the father molest her? Between the lead poisoning and the wicked step mother and the father molesting... NO WONDER SHE WAS ACTING OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm glad that Calista is with GOD now, and he will love her and NOW shes safe.

When one of Calista's letters was read in court, a portion of the letter said... "I have... two cats..."......
What happened to the third cat? The Springer children were given three cats (so said Anthony Springer on the witness stand). What happened to the third cat? What really happened to the third cat?
???????

Feel the jury did a good job.They could not agree on the murder charges.Rather than being a deadlocked jury and starting the trail all over again.Really hope the judge will give them the max.

I can't believe he (Anthony) has the nerve to blame everybody but himself–including his mother–give me a break. I also believe Marsha IS the evil stepmother. I am so sorry for Calista and am glad that she is finally getting the respect and justice she deserves.

In order to find them guilty of murder the law reads. " It's not enough that the chain made if POSSIBLE for Calista to die, but it has to be the NATURAL and NECESSARY cause of death." The fire was the cause of death. The only difference between 1st and 2nd degree murder is that 1st degree needs to have a felony charge with it. Peopl...open your minds to the law....it's hard to put your person feelings aside and do this, but...as jurors this is our job.

Marsha Springer is as much a victim of Anthony Springer as his children, and blind. Putting her in prison would be a waste of taxpayers' money; and there are other children to be raised. Anthony Springer is clearly a damaged individual who cared more about being embarrassed by Calista for her "inappropriate behavior" than providing the best care for her. This is an extremely angry man who needs to be put away for a long, long time.

Just how blind is Marsha? To blind to lock up knives and ect. But not to blind to take apart a vaccuum and reassemble. Not to blind to get the dog out of the burning house. Not to blind to teach home school. Not too blind to find the alleged fire ext. Not to blind to do quilting. But they claim all sh can see is shadows? The guide lines for leagally blind must be very low.

I am sorry but the statement "Springer's actions were not the cause of Calistas death, the fire was" Is absolutely obsered. If it were not for their actions of chaining her to the bed she would have had a large chance of getting out of the house. Did they not hear her scream? why did the family dog get out but not Calista. I do not agree with them being aquitted of Calistas murder.

I would wonder if anyone commenting has ever had a special needs child? I am not saying that it was correct to put her down with the restraints that they used however have you ever delt with alsheimers or autism those children and people have to be protected from themselves. The teachers are lying about her not being a problem because children whom have to have an iep have issues and they know it.The parents are telling the truth, those children offten steal,lye and bang their heads if they dont get their way have to be watched constantly to keep them safe, its like having a baby that never sleeps all night. Constent stress and fear something is going to happen if you turn your head. Those children whom need leahses to go to the store. So before you people judge so harshly spend a week in the shoes for these people then you tell them what to do. this is tragic and so sad, I feel sorry for all those involved

If Anthony appeared this angry on the stand in front of a Judge and his community, I can only imagine what it must have been like behind closed doors for poor Callista.

I can't believe Anthony is saying they have been punished enough.What a liar, his daughter is dead because of both of them.And he says what will it do if they go to jail for the rest of there life , werll for starters ,if we let these paents go free it sends a message to others that they can do it too. they deserve life in prision .

first degree murder? charged by an overzealous prosecutor to make the parents look like monsters. they didn't start the fire. They were at their wits end and made a bad decision. my heart goes out to that poor child, to die like that, but life in prison, what will that do, maybe counseling, since they couldn't get help before this tragic event

No justice HERE! I am a survivor of years of tortureous treatment at the hands of my mother and step-father. I am grateful that I have had the grace to forgive them. We have to send a strong message that people who allow themselves to treat a child with this tortureous history must be held accountable. This was murder and torture was the beginning of what resulted in her death. Saddly as a nation of people who are reluctant to punish the guilty fully will leave the doors open to more and more stories like this. We can not call these people parents, they failed on every level. People should be outraged, screaming for justice for the murder victim. Calista was a humanbeing that was treated in the most inhumane fashion and died. Where were all those that knew about her situation and did not follow through and report the crime and keeping the heat on those that have the authority to stop this do something. I'm 62 now and the authorities that I went to and revealed my injuries said if I was a better child that this would not be happening. Even a judge blamed me. I pray we will finally stand up and get involved to stop this crime. Hear her cries for help, hear her screams as she burned to death.

When Marsha is expressing her regret in cleaning the floor...the only thing she is really sorry for is that she didn't unfasten Calista BEFORE she cleaned the floor. Benadryl...chains...a faulty sweeper...is there really anyone out there that cant figure this out?

If not for the fire, calista would be 18, would she still be chained to the bed? Would any agency have yet intervened?

Before anything else, let me say that it is horrifying to think of anyone being chained to a bed, unable to free themselves and burning to death. The fear and pain that poor child must have felt surpasses what any of us can possibly imagine.
Having said that, I realize I am in a minority position when I say that I can understand Anthony Springer's anger over the failure of the system to provide adequate support to the family in light of Calista's special needs.
I was not convinced that Calista was a victim of a Cinderella complex and that she was singled out and abused and tortured while her sisters were given preferential treatmet. The fact that she was often seen looking dirty or unkept could have been another symptom of her condition.
Too often society is quick to blame parents when there are situations beyound a parent's control; such as in this situation. We have too many inept or unconcerned agencies and social workers who don't offer solutions to help parents in need of support . By the way, my children are grown and thank God, I didn't have any special needs children who needed assistance but you don't have to look far to find people in the community with those concerns.
I get disturbed when society only wants to condemn and does not want to help solve problems that could have averted a tragedy such as this one. It really does take a community to raise a child and in this case the community failed.

I wonder why Marsha's defense team didn't play up the angle that she was controlled by Anthony. Considering the PPO filed by her and her accusations of him, plus the fact that she depended on him when her sight failed, they would of had plenty of ammunition to switch most, if not all, of the blame to Anthony. I think her defense team may have dropped the ball on that one!

I hope they stay in prison for a long , long time
I am so sorry for what these people did to that little girl.
The Springers are very cold people, no love for Calista, just pure hate.
Calista now is free for ever and happy in heaven.
Great job Ryan and Vini, love the passion that you guys showed on Calista's trial, you guys are 10!

Calista was murdered by her parents.

When I think of prison I think of the crap that I see on tv...if any of that is actualy true..I can count on that Marsha and Tony will get back more than 10 fold of what they deserve. I know for sure that Calista won't be looking down and feeling justified...she will be sad....very sad...because she really wasn't a bad person....Marsha and Tony are the bad people here.

This case was a open shut case of abuse, torture, and even though there was no senetence for murder IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN GIVEN. I'm sorry, if you cant handle a child with the disability that this child had then maybe they should have found some other means of someone that could. I would not even tie my pets down with chains. Also, what was his council thinking in letting him speak to the judge before his sentence is laid down. As you can tell, he is angry at everyone else except for the one he should be angry with, HIMSELF!!! However, I do feel the wife is remorsefull for what she had done. I'm sorry, but in my dealing's with and expierences it seems to me that the mother somehow may have been in situation in which she could not handle when it came with living with him and handling a child she had no idea in how to take care of her. Something is truely wrong when Anthony's mother does not support him in anyway. In ending, this is too Clasita and all the other abused children in this world, there is people that are out there that are caring and loving. Not everyone is the same. Dont give up, there is people out there that can help you.

I beleive that the Springers other 2 daughters will need consuling because if they don,t they will bring their future children up in the same manner because they won,t know any better. They need to be shown lovand how to treat other children around them.

We all as a public feel Calistas pain....no matter what testimony is provided...we all fee for her...she was the victim here and the fact that she fell through whatever system is truly a wake up call to all of us...we have to pay attention..the very thing we teach our children to do.....we HAVE to pratice what we preach

I can't believe the Springvers weren't convicted of at least second degrree murder. I wish the lesser charge of manslaughter were included as a charge. The Springers are definitely guilty of the death of Calista.

Tony Springer is one sick, arrogant, and evil abuser. He only sees the world the way he wants to see it–all of the problems in his life are other people's faults. Typical thinking for an abusive male. I believe Tony lied abou almost everything on the stand.He said Calista put just about everything in her mouth, but if you look at the video of the party, when the pinata was broken and all the candy/toys fell d

In my eyes these people used Calista to obtain as much money as they could, from any kind of disability they could get for her, when that money was cut off then she was of no further use to them, So I think thery planned the whole thing.
Anthony Springer, is obviously a psyco. egotistical weirdo, they should have let his mother get up on the stand to testify.
As far as Marsha goes, everything about her says poor little blind, diabetic me. She obviously hated Calista because she required way too much attention, and had way too much done to her in her short life, and they knew that sooner or later she would get away from them and let the cat out of the bag.
I hope that the state of Michigan follows the prosecutors recomendation, and gives them both far beyond the maximum sentence.

The person I feel sor the most now is the grandmother, I think she is the only one in the family that truly loved Calista, God rest her little soul

The Springers are crying now because they had a little taste of what it feels like to be in "chains" (jail). Ironically isn't that what Calista herself said about being in a prison? Back atcha Springers! I am getting sick listening to them blaming the world and feeling sorry for themselves.

I wish Marsha's sister could find out what chains are like too. I just want to slap that witch.

Calista is at peace and finally she is free.

I am just totally sick over Anthony & Marsha Springer's statements. The Jury should of come back GUILTY of 1st Degree EVERYTHING. Not just the Torture & Abuse.

I hope to God that they spend their remaining days locked in a cell 23 Hours a day. Better yet let them out in General Population and then lets see what "Torture & Abuse" are all about. The inmates would have a field day with these monsters.

Calista Marie Springer: Reborn February 27, 2008. God Love you child, no more Pain or Suffering for you. We all have felt your pain and speak out for you Calista. RIP

To Rhonda

There is no compassion for any parent that chains a child. She died either way. So if Calista couldn't get up and run why didn't they 1st think of her and UNDO those chains??? It was not the fire alone that killed her!

I am wondering why Marsha was not crying when they described Calistas death, but now that her butt is on the line all she wants to do is cry. I hope they both get life. They deserve worse!

Just because Marsha had complaints about Anthony doesn't mean she wasn't just as evil as he is. Evil people can fear for their physical safety.

but seriously it needs to be titled and akclowledged...the syndrome where a parent tortures a child based on their anger toward the ex....if that child looks like the ex...its even worse because every time they look at that child all they see is the ex and the angst they represent

I totally agree with Darlene's comment. End of story!

My heart goes out to Suzanne Langdon. I too have a son who turned a 180 degrees against me for doing what I felt were the right things to do at the time. I know how she feels. When that happens you wonder where the anger came from and you feel helpless that you child hurts so much. My son is a police officer who had to shoot a man to death because the man was stomping his child to death. I understand his anger and that he is directing it towards me because he knows I will always be there for him. I hope you will pass this on to Suzanne so that she will realize that his anger is not really with her, but with himself. He needs to blame someone else. She is the only one who will love him unconditionally so she gets it. God be with her.

Anthony Springer said they used the chain as a last resort. Wouldn't having Calista institutionalized been a better last resort? OH NO! He couldn't and wouldn't do that!! Better to chain her to her bed and take a chance on having her die in a house fire!!

You never saw any kind of emotion during the trial from either of them, but now they know they're going to jail they turn on the waterworks!! They aren't crying for Calista...they're crying for their sorry butts!! Give me a break!!

Even though he may be the youngest to in the prosecutors office, I would 100% back John McDonough now and in the future.

Its my opinion that when Tony said what he did about his Mom he totaly described what he did to Calista and why. He wanted her to hurt as much as he did., he wanted someone to pay as much as he did...most parents see the wrong and go the opposite way, extreme cleanliness....over protectiveness...he went the bad way...he perpetuated the abuse..instead of going with what he knew was right he chose to make Calista suffer just like he had which makes him the most devious of predators. He didn't fight to right the wrong...he participated in it

How could a nice woman like Callista's grandmother, so well-spoken, and gentle, have a child like her monster son, Tony? I mean..he picked up road-kill and put the bones back together after taking off the flesh!! What a sick pervert! Little Callista is better off for sure. I am angry that these horrible people were cleared of murder. The mother is so ignorant..."I should have never even turned on the vacuum that day...!" What? what kind of remorse is this BS?? Can you believe that she has the audacity to even do housework while that poor child was chained to the bed?! How could the jury clear them of murder? That rat father was still making excuses today...well, one good thing...they will get theirs with what life they have left here on earth.... and, thank God, after.

Calista is finally free of these horrible people, that called themselves her parents, their is no way to get justice in a situation like this,when you can't accept responsibilty for your own actions them their isn't much to do,but to throw away the key and hope that some day Anthony and Marsha can realize that they could of done a much better job with dealing with Calista's behavior problems, she would of thrived being in a group home or state facality , maybe they were scared that people would of found Calista was actually normal,and being abused,she may of been delayed but could of functioned in a different enviorment.

The system let her down, so did her parents. Shame on them!!

He blames his Mother...I don't...if things bothered him so badly he should have dealt with that and not made his daughter suffer due to HIS issues. Moms cant fix what they don't know is broken. He decided to hide and harbour his feelings and then use then as a means to escape punnishment for what he knew was wrong all along

THIS GUY IS UNREAL!! blaming everyone for his mistake. he only shows remorse because he knows he is going to jail for a long time. he is not remorseful of that poor girl and what she went threw. he is a monster and i hope he rots in hell. that poor lil girl .may she rest in peace now and she is with angels who will take better care of her. i hope that judge gives him life in prison. and hope he dies in there.

I can NOT believe that the jury found those murderers not guilty! I am stunned. I just pray that the judge has better sense than the jury! I pray that they get life in prison WITHOUT parole and that the people in prison give them what they deserve as they usually do with a child abuser/torcherer, but most of all MURDER!

I do have a special needs child and he has just turned ten.....I have had to special measures in our homes to keep him from danger and harm........I have never had even a thought of tying him down or restraining him....I and my husband have had extremely difficult times raising our son to the point of it having a large part of our split up....but no matter what we still love him and do everything we can to keep him safe.....so as a mother of a special needs child.....I think the Springers actions as well as the lack of actions of the appropriate authorities is what aused Calistas death.

The killed her and should have been convicted of it!!!

they should have been found guilty of all charges including murder...

What was the jury thinking? Not guilty of murder is a slap in the face to the memory of Calista. I watched the whole trail and when I wasn't I recorded it and can not believe the Springers was found not-guilty of 1st dgree murder. As a Criminal Justice student and fellow Michigan resident I thought Mr Springers sentencing statement was a disgisting display of an angry man who I hope gets everything he deserves.

It's time to require intelligence tests as a qualification for jury service. What is wrong with these people?

I hope that the prosecution can appeal the jury decision. If not, I am completely disgusted with the Michigan population. Considering one is supposed to be tried by a jury of his/her peers, this leads me to conclude that the people in the Michigan community see nothing wrong with the maltreatment and murder of a child by her parents.

They will have plenty of time to reflect and hopefully stop blaming everyone.. They were suppose to protect callista not rely on others or agencies...When you have a child with special needs and are not getting to services to meet those needs , you raise hell until you get what is needed..not give up and chain her to a bed..I hope they spend the rest of there lives in prison where child killers are preyed upon...I am glad callista is free

The jury should have found guilt on all the charges against Marsha and Tony. It was his idea to chain her up and it was Marsha's idea to save her dog instead of her daughter the day of the fire. Both of those actions led to Callista's death! How they could not see a direct link is beyond me.

I think that the jury did an awesome job for Not finding guilty on murder.. But I still do not believe it should have been 1st degree child abuse....should have no more than 3 years in prison

Guilty, Guilty, GUILTY!, I would have convicted on all charges, if the child had not been chained down, she would still be alive, did the jurors not listen. These two are depraved and indiferent. I think the judge should sentence the max plus. The dog got out, but not the child, what is the world coming to

I believe that they should have given them the murder sentence for the fact of them tying her to the bed and did nothing to try to get her out of the house the judge should send them away for life!

Chelsie
Ohio

they should of been found GUILTY OF ALL CHARGES.

the jury was wrong on the murder charge!! They are just as guilt as murder as the other charges! they are the ones that are crazy.

I feel that there is an injustice here due to their actions their daughter is dead. How can anyone just leave their daughter strapped to a bed. I personally feel that they should have been charged with murder, I am a mother of four and my son is a handfull by far but I would never do that to him there are other alternatives. I hope they get life in prison!!!!

If this verdict doesn't SCREAM out for a LIFE sentence then I don't know what does!!!!! How did they NOT convict on Second Degree Murder????

A sad day .....

jennifer~~Summerdale, Alabama

I am disappointed in the jury. But I felt the same way about O.J.
The only thing I can say is they still willl have a higher autority to answer to in the future, and that jury they can not lie to.

These two should be sentenced to the full extent of the law. The tears that they shed were clearly NOT for the daughter that they killed,, but for pitiful excuse's they both are as parents....

No I do not agree with the Verdict, But, If the Judge sentences them to 50 years I can live with that. They know they kill Calista. They will pay for that everyday they are in prison. Marsha should get no lighter sentence, she should have thought about that when she was torturing Calista. I LOVE MR MCDONGOUGH. He was GREAT.

If they couldn't get them on murder they should have been charged with some type of manslaughter.

I strongly agree with Mcdonough,those finger-pointing parents should recieve full penalty!

They are selfish selfish people, that poor girl suffered emotionally everyday! She was probably scared and felt so alone, shame on them !!!
Michele

Anthony and Marsha Springer should have been convicted of Calista's murder.

Marsha screamed that it was an accident, she apologized for vacumming, but NEVER apologized for chaining Calista to that bed.

I think the jury did what they could under the guidelines given. I don't think intent to kill was proven. since they had the other two charges to choose from that gave them an out for convictions. it cuts down the options on appeal.

they should have been found guilty of involuntary manslaughter along with torture. They should at least get 15 yrs plus for the abuse.

I think Marsha should have received as stiff of a sentence as Anthony. She seemed to be the main abuser of Calista. I feel like Anthony took the blame for the chaining of Calista when Marsha was just as guilty as he was.

No I think they were railroad i have a specail need's child and it's hard! You don't no unless you was there and i think they was guilty before they even went to court, the world is sad

should have been guilty on all charges! I am extremely disappointed in this verdict! The parents are the ones with the mental problems!

Oh my gosh, I sure wish the death penalty was available!!! This fool had the nerve to use his ability to speak to blame everyone else. Its a good thing I was not in that coutroom because I would not have been able to keep my mouth shut. I am infuriated by his statement and see he has no remorse for his actions. I feel sorry for those kids all of them who he controlled. He is a sick person who does not deserve to be alive with the inhumane treatment of Calista. For him to make himself the victim is the sickest thing I have ever heard.

I pray for the living children, that they find the truth once they are old enough to relize what the parents did is not right, normal or acceptable. I pray for peace for them and they get the needed counseling they will need.

I feel the wife is just as guilty and just as unremorseful. I do believe she to was sadly controlled by him, however she allowed and participated in abuse of this precious innocent child.

We need to step up and protect these kids. We need to put an end to this abuse and not be afraid to call the authorities on these sick sad excuses of parents. Everyday it seems there is another case worse than the last. This case deserves death penaltes after all poor Calista did!!

Some people need to know when NOT to speak. Anthony has had years to rehearse for this trial and chose to use his time to speak as a chance to blame everyone else for Calistas death. How inhumane. He did not take the time to even remember her in mention.

If Marsha is so blind then how can she do so much sewing I hope they both get life in prison and where was CPS to help this poor child.And I also think she has a lot of people fooled. My mother has raised 5 kids and 4 grand kids and has had 2 strokes and never has had to tie us to the bed Autumn A

They're not guilty of murder because of the fact that they literally did not start that fire. They in no way induced her death. Torture and child abuse was commited by chaining her to her bed, however that's not what killed her. The fire is was caused her death. The fact that her parents failed to try to rescue her by risking there own lives is irrelevent.

Not only do I think the parents are guilty, so are the case workers for children's services. They were blind and did not put enough into this case. This child would be alive today if they had done their jobs. How many complaints does it take. I know child workers are burdened, but, get a clue people.

to connie:

did you all chain your special needs child?
the difference is your family loved your special needs child. if you watched any of the trial, you wouldve seen that there seemed to be no love for calista...they just about diefied her...i mean even the dog made it out...guess it wasnt chainded up huh? or even if it was, they managed to free it(the dog) but not calista?
rest in peace calista,

I agree with Vinny and Mike, they are guilty on all charges. If a defendant in any other scenario commits a felony where an innocent person is killed, he/she (the defendant) is guilty of felony murder. I disagree with them not being found guilty of murder. They are guilty as sin!!!

The jury missed it on murder. Why didn't Marsha call the fire dept when she smelled smoke with her being blind!!!! Calisata would still be alive today if this action was taken.

Marsha gave no special consideration to Calista's disability when she and Anthony decided to drug and chain her. They had no mercy for Calista therefore, there should be no mercy for Marsha!

They both need to pay for her abuse and death- no way should they go lightly Calesta can't. Keep high but not lfe- because they would be out early. Tony is still thinking he's the hurt one. I also think he chained her to sexually abuse her.

I think that if this juge dont sences bouth of them to life
ther is no justice for clista

Because they could not prove intent it became a big problem for the jury to find them guilty of murder. I think they should have stayed with manslaughter, which had been proved beyond a doubt. The most disturbing thing to me was to watch the mother in court lounging in her chair twirling her hair as if she was not the least bit interested in the proceedings.

Why has no one seen these 2 for who they really are.... Tony & Marsha MANSON! Ol` Charles Manson wasn`t a murderer either....

They allready lost there child that's punishment enough!

Is Michigan law different than Florida law? Here, if someone commits a felony and during the commission of that felony someone is killed, they are just as guilty of murder as if they ran up to someone and shot them in the head. The Springers committed felony acts on Calista daily and they knew that chaining her to the bed was putting her at risk in the event of a fire - Anthony Springer testified they knew this and had a "fire escape plan" for just such an occurrence. So why on earth did this jury acquit them of murder if they found them guilty of the other two felonies??? Very, very sad that the "fire escape plan" only worked out for their dog and that Calista was left to die alone. God Bless Calista. She is in much better place where she can get up and go to the restroom if she so chooses.

First time watching this show, but I have to say you need to keep the commentary to a minimum.

This child is dead as a result of her own parents actions! The judge state that the child's death is unfortunate but not the parents fault per the jury? I don't understand how murder cleared! Whats unfortunate is the verdict.

Tony Springer seems like he has special needs himself. Anyone who would, or would allow his child to be chained to their bed, has a serious mental deficit. Marsha Springer should have been charged with murder. She was there. Blind or not, her first priority should have been to save that child. Now they will be taken care of on our dollar. Guilt will probably not be factor in their lives because it did not play a part in how they made Calista live her life, hungry, cold and chained down worse that most people treat a dog. Marsha needs to cry! She needs to remember everyday for the rest of her life what she has done, as does her husband.

I beieve that Marsha should have been a guilty verdict on murder. I felt from the start, that she started that fire because they were loosing it to foreclosure, and she could solve the Calista problem in one act!!!!

They are just now getting sentensed and your host wants to show how thier life will be in prison. Let me help you out with this. They will be placed in a SNY. It was once called Protective Custody but now Sensitive Needs Yard. They will live just fine. Truthfully I think they should be put on the mainline where it will handled by the convicts.

As I watch this trial I feel that they get what they deserve but Idon't understand why the Grandmother or biological mother did not intervine and take that child away from them before this all happened they seem to have knowned all about it know all about it.Thank You

i dont think it was murder the fire was not on purpose but a manslaughter on top of the torture and abuse would have been better than nothing. this poor girl was left to the wolves. there ids no remorse for there daughter he will take the blame for both....does not show any feelings for there daughter but for each other and the other daughters that had a life compaired Calista. this is a sad day for everyone and an eye opener to what kind of monsters are really out there....was he guilty when he walke in the room as he said yes...he was they let there child burn in a fire chained with no way out... i couldnt imagine the pain she indured.

They were moving that week-end... most of there things were out of the house!!!... Marsha set the house on fire!!! ...no one would leave a small appliance IN the house to catch the home on fire... Any one in their right mind would have taken the sweeper OUT side the house!!! Marsha is getting away with MURDER!!!

I agree with the jurys verdict only because they were not given any other options in considering the verdict for them to be guilty of murder they should have been given the option of manslaughter as well...this I believe is more on Marsha than Tony cause she was at home and if he had been POSSIBLY he might have saved her...because they were not given the options considering t he death I believe the jury was correct in finding them guilty as much as they were able. I do believe also the judge needs to take in consideration when sentencing their statements to him. Tony continues to be in denial of his own sins and still blames others ie his mother etc...and Marsha was only sorry for "vacumming " that day...neither of them were contrite in admitting the torture and abuse they inflicted on Calista was WRONG in view of their continued selfish views of their continued acts of abuse and torture I hope the judge gives them the ultimate allowed by law...if they would have once said they were sorry for what they were found GUILTY of that in retrospect and that maybe they should have sought other methods in constraining her for her "safety" ( IRONIC for lack of better word) then possibly they might deserve some consideration but since they still believe what they did was the right way to handle a chld with "special needs" and shown ONE MINUTE of love or care for the daughter they lost because of their bad deicsions then they might deserve a lesser sentence...I hope the judge throws the book at them...on a side note Marshas blindness should not be a factor for prison...maybe for her safety they should chain her to her prison bed..HAHA..... IRONIC again...JMHO

Are you kidding???? They should suffer the same fate she did!!! The dog made it out but she didn't!! Where is the justice? Callista is now with our LOVING LORD!!!! I am angry!! She died because of them!!! Burn in hell you pukes!!!! The jury and justice system should be ashamed!!! SHAME ON YOU!!!!!

In this day and age I find it hard to believe that the cause of the fire was undetermined. If arson had been proven they would not have gotten away with murder. Again I believe Calista was going to have to be unchained living in their new place, and having someone that she might tell scared the Springers.

I've been through 2 house fires myself so I think marsha should get death sentence or least life in jail for torture, murder, and abuse. abuse because there is no sence in using dog choke chains. and I think anthony needs to go because he wasn't home at the time but the blame also need to be split between the child services that is just a terrible way to go and Calista may be gone but hopefully never forgotten and maybe she is a better plan with GOD in heaven

Marsha Springer should not have special "anything" in prison. So sorry she is diabetic and partially blind. She had NO pity on her child. She is guilty guilty guilty...end of story.

Marsha wasn't that blind if she could see to tie Calista up. I think the jury was wrong for not getting them for murder.

I thing they should have been convicted of murder. They chained the young girl to the bed and left her in the house while it burned down. There was plenty of time to go in and get her out, they did not want her out. The prison system can take care of the mother even tho she is legally blind. That is an excuse to get her a lighter sentence. She deserves the max and more. He does not deserve to see the light of day anymore. They both will be in trouble in prison, Inmates don,t like child abusers in any shape. It should have been MURDER for both of them. Also the CPS should be investigated for their lack of concern the neighbors that knew about it, the school system knew about it and did nothing about it. All of these people should be held accountable for their lack of care.

they killed this child. why was the dog and cat and them get out. why didnt they go to get calista. no excuse. the jury made a mistake on this one.

As I watch this trial I feel that they get what they deserve but Idon't understand why the Grandmother or biological mother did not intervine and take that child away from them before this all happened they seem to have knowned all about.Thank You

I've been through 2 house fires myself so I think marsha should get death sentence or least life in jail for torture, murder, and abuse. abuse because there is no sence in using dog choke chains. and I think anthony needs to go because he wasn't home at the time but the blame also need to be split between the child services that is just a terrible way to go and Calista may be gone but hopefully never forgotten and maybe she is a better place with GOD in heaven

every word in tony and marshas stmts today at sentencing.. was about them.. "poor me" .. still blaming everyone else.. admitting 'maybe not a good idea'.. and only tears for themselves... i pray for their other 2 children that they can realize that they shld have stood by calista ... at least now since they are safe from their parents.. they can go either way now.. it scares me.. i think marsha shldnt have spoken... what a fool! she showed her true self!!!! WOW!!!!!! she doesnt deserve ANY children... anthony, he's just evil incarnate!!!! have either of them ever showed any of us.. have they showed anyone.. that they actually had any love for her???? his mom, in my prayers.. she turned her abusive son in for help, not custody.. and he cut her out of his life... typical! my heart goes out to her.. am so sick of 'poor marsha' .. like others have said.. if she cld see to vacuum and sew and get the dog out.. if she loved this child where were her priorities??? thru the vacuum thru the window, door, whatever, run her lazy self upstairs and break that bed if u have to to get that child out.. there are tons of stories of insurmountable strength and heroism of mothers and others in time of need... this one new she was up there dying and left her there... didnt even try.. didnt call 911.. admitted to first responder 'what did i do?' i am so sick of the excuses i was abused, i'm disabled, calista was troubled.. there is no excuse, reason for any of this.. the child had the right to live! thats the truth.. theyre just afraid of whats going to happen to them in jail.. i hear prisoners are not too friendly to rapists and child abusers.. again.. all this was their choice.. all so overwhelming... do u realize that we are all calling her by name, from our hearts.. and they still don't.. rest angel and feel the love... and maybe, just maybe, all that u have suffered and died for will save another child... God bless lil angel.. :^)

It's a travisty that they were not found guilty of murder. Why wasn't manslauter offered? The only tears these supposed parents shed were for themselves. It sickens me that this case is sending a message to other bad parents that this is OK! If she was to hard for them they should have turned her over to a loving caring facility or family.Our friends have autism in their family and have delt with much worse behavior problems and handled them with caring and love. They don't have any remorse at all. My heart breaks for Calista. I can only pray that they get the longest sentence allowable by law in honoring her memory.

I think they both deserve life in prison. Anthony shows no remorse and Marsha is crying because she is scared poop-less. She should get no special sentencing because she was still capable of treating Calista in such a horrible manner. I feel if they couldn't handle Calista in a human way they should have put her in a special needs hospital at least there she would still be alive!!!! VERY MAD MOTHER OF @2, Amy, FL

It was very disappointing that the Springers did not get, at the very LEAST, Second Degree Murder, along with the Torture and Child Abuse, and I think it was absolutely DISGUSTING watching Tony during the sentencing hearing, blaming everyone else, and Marsha, not only does she LOOK like a witch, she SOUNDS like one too. Yeah, blame it on the vacuum...

Talking about the mom in prison...She's special needs.. chain her to the bed too!!

Marsha should not get ANY special treatment of any kind. She did not care about how Calista felt. I say lock her up with the rest of the criminals and let her survive like poor Calista had too. Calista's abusing, torturing, murderous "parents' did not cry not one time during the whole trial while hearing and talking about their precious daughter burning alive in a fire, and NOW they cry. It's times like this I wish would bring public hanging back!

Ok devils advocate. I don't believe they ever intended to kill that child. It wasn't like they didn't reach out for help. Those workers should be held liable too. because of their failure, the Springers had to handle it on their own. BUT, they handled it horribly.. It is NEVER acceptable to chain up a child. But I'd have gone for child abuse, reckless endangerment of a minor and negligent homicide. As parents our first thought is *HANG THE BASTARDS!* but these are not people who are a danger to society IMO. We saw videos of Calista being included IE: swimming, playing, etc.. I just think in the end they made a horrible choice that was downright cruel. Their frustration caused them to lose any sense of right and wrong, and obscured their ability to use their heads. I'd go 25 to life if I were the judge.

Hey they should get the max plusssss, evil people should pay

Ryan Smith asked his guests "What will prison be like for the Springers?" Perhaps, they'll be reminded of thier daughter Collista; her freedoms were removed, as will theirs – How fitting.

I really do get the feeling that Anthony and Marsha Springer do not take responsibility nor have remorse for what they did to Calista. It really became apparent to me, when Marsha said she was sorry she vacumed that day, that Marsha clearly does not understand the (consequence/ the wrong) of her actions. I hope that after hearing what Anthony had to say in his defense, the judge will acknowledge Anthony's innability to feel remorse or accept responsibily. Hopefully the judge wiil consider this in their sentencing.

I truley believe they should have been found guilty on all charges. They are the reason Callista is dead. If she had not been chained to her bed, when the 'accidental' fire started she would have had a chance to make it out alive. Her father is so selfish and does not even care his daughter is dead. At least his wife showed some trype of compassion for what happened and apologized for her death. I really think that father was the mastermind behind all of the child abuse, and may even been verbially or mentally abuse to his wife.

Well, Tony sure had good cause to slam his mother for her victim impact statement based upon her desire to destroy him. Hope he has the good sense to feel like an idiot after her gentle and compassionate statement for Calista.

I think they should have been found guilty of murder Their actions are what caused the death of this child. As for those of you who say that you don't know what it is like until you walk in their shoes. No some people don't. I've been in this situation and I'm also an RN who has worked with psychiatric and alzheimer's patients. It is against the law to restrain them in any way that may cause them harm. In fact you cannot restrain alzheimers patients in a nursing home setting. There are other alternatives available. Bed alarms, door locks, or watching the child. Putting them in a facility that is equipped to deal with them is an excellent alternative not just for the caregiver but for the child as well. I feel like these people should have been monitored more by CPS but, they weren't. Any type of chain on a human is wrong. If you are a caregiver and are doing this as a last resort, STOP! Some say that maybe they couldn't afford alarms yet they seemed to do pretty well at Christmas and had a pool. They could have gotten an alarm.
There is no excuse or reason for what they did to this poor child.

Marsha is crying now that she is going to jail!!!

give them the chair or injection, children are not here for this tipe of life, they are here to enjoy life and to be loved. these two should be chained give them a taste..

CONCURRENT OR CONSECUTIVE???????????????????

I noticed Anthony Springer wearing handcuffs and leg chain shackles. I wonder how he would feel if there was a fire alarm in the courthouse.

I am glad that Marsha Springer won't be able to do anything in prison without help, she won't be able to go to meals, to showers, she'll be told when she can do something, and even if she was to be chained to her bed at night, it still wouldn't come close to what Calista was put through, I have no sympathy for either defendant.

Marsha said she was sorry that she had to vacuume, but she is not sorry she did not take Calista out of the dog chains.

I wonder why Marsha keeps mouthing "I'm sorry". He is as at fault as she is and after hearing she had feared him in the past I wonder if she feared him at the time of Calista's death in some way as well as not caring for the childs life. I don't think her being blind or ridiculous about being diabetic should give her any special treatment other than someone to watch out for her. Anthony's tirade was stupid at best and it showed his under control rage. I feel bad for his mom who had to listen to him blame her for so many issues.

If Marsha Springer is supposely blind, please someone tell me how she helped home school Carisita. And, how could she see to sew. or where to place the straight pens that they claim Clarista put in her mouth. Now they are talking about giving her special consideration in prision because she is BLIND????? Did I miss something? I know what they can do to give her special treatment – CHAIN HER UP IN HER BED ALL THE TIME AND LET HER PEE ON HERSELF.

You've got to be kidding me, torture-guilty child abuse-guilty and murder-NOT GUILTY! WHAT? They should be guilty of murder in the second degree they knew chaining her to her bed could be fatal if there was a fire but yet they kept doing it. trying to find a way that the chain caused her death, Tonys hands touched that chain which went around her tiny waist that held her to her bed not able to escape the fire, to me thats the same as him holding her down as she slowly died. I can not believe they got away with murder, finding out that Tony seems to be a psycopath Marsha filing a P.O against him because she fears him, did she fear him enough that day to set his plan in motion they both forgot to undo Calista, he leaves for work other kids off to school and all of a sudden when everyone is gone a blind lady is left alone with her she still hasn't been undone and the "vacuum" catches fire Marsha saves the dog but seeks no help for Calista. seems pretty fishy to me and you can see it in their faces, sickening! Calista now you are at peace but before you move on I hope you enjoy haunting the heck out of them!

Does anyone know what kind of care Calista would have received had she been institutionalized? I don't know. Would an institution have restrained her? How? Or would she have had round the clock supervision? What kind of people would be her caregivers? People who loved her unconditionally? Or people who are untrained in special needs patients who work for minimum wage and are caring for 30 other people at the same time? I don't know the answer to these questions, do any of you? I worked in the office of a nursing home many years ago and witnessed many elderly people being neglected by uncaring people. They were not abused but didn't get the kind of care they deserved and needed. What kind of facilities are available to children with special needs? What does it cost and would this kind of care have been available to Calista? Would the state provide that for her?

I also agree with the comment made earlier about the shotty coverage of this case by court tv. I watch court tv all the time and have been enraged and shocked by the one sided coverage this case has gotten. I am very disappointed in the judgmental reporting by all concerned!

Do you know what Marsha's degree of blindness is? she was looking out at the gallery and saying "I'm sorry"

More time she got 19 he got 25 should have life!

I agree with the judge's assessment that he couldn't say who Calista was and his indicment of CPS. I think the judge's determination was fair.

I believe that they should have been convicted of Murder. If not for their abuse, neglect and torture this 16 yr old girl wouldn't have died in that house fire. While watching the sentencing part of this the Step mother is crying and showing remorse the father is not!!! What is wrong with him?? For that matter if it was the fathers "plan" she shouldn't have gone along with it!! I am relieved that they are at least going to prison for what they did! They are both guilty and should have gotten a harsher punishment.

Now they will know what it is like to be locked up. They will have more freedom then she did. I also think that there is a reason that she wouldn't bathe at home!!

Anyone else notice Marsha signing the douments? Blind my ass. These animals should both be given the death penalty. In the meantime, maybe they could be chained to their jail cots & not allowed up until... someone may feel like doing it. The same thing they did to poor Calista. Maybe someone will make Anthony their "girlfriend' while in prison too. Then he will know what he put Calista through. Do not forget the condoms in her trash can! R.I.P. Calista.

I don't really agree with the decision of the jury, Yes the state of michigan let the little girl down by not removing her from that home.
I don't feel that the parents were let down by the state, they chose to do this their way. Its plain to me that Rocket scientist ( Anthony Springer ) is a control freak. and I really hate to see good tax dollars going to waste feeding him for the rest of his life. Hopefully he will get a cell mate that has a real hatred for child abusers.
As for Mommy dearest ( Marsha Springer, I despise the fact that anyone feels sorry for her at all...
Too bad Michigan dosent have a tent prison like Arizona does.
Nothing would make me happier than to see the both of them sentenced to hard labor for the rest of their lives.
They deserve no remorse from anyone.

I just saw Marsha trying to tell Anthony [during the actual sentencing] something about being so sorry for his sentence, and he spoke shaking his head 'no' and cut her off from anything further she was trying to relay to him. Talk about CONTROLLING – his look of ANGER AT THE JUDGE for his sentencing and his DESPICABLE, OBVIOUS ANGRY LOOK at the Judge – says it all. This man thinks he is the ONLY PERSON with the right to dictate how others should live their lives. They best do exactly what he dictates, or they will feel his wrath.

these people had a kid that was out of control they asked for help tryed. to get help for her an the system failed again. I went through the same thing with my oldest son in an out of court ,cousiling, trouble at school, in juvie, many sleepless night of fear of what he was gonna do next. why has no one looked at this ,why has no one looked into this childs records. it is terrable that this child had to die this way. but when you have a child like this and you dont no what else to do you do stupid things. they was not tried fair ,its the systems fault for not helping them when they needed it. but they always think it the parents fault, we these kids are born this way an it is hell every day of your life dealing with them you people just dont no. i dont think they should have left the child chained all the time that was wrong. they should have done something different, put her away in a place that would have helped her. not chained her up like a dog. there is places for these kind of kids i put mine there an it was the best thing i ever did. hes 23 now an lives a normal life with his family.

Vinny-

I am so disappointed in the justice system. These people DESERVE the death penalty for murder. How they escaped that charge i will never understand.
They didn't get sentenced to enough time in my opinion.
Calista lived a LIFE of torture. The judge talked about "incidents".
Does anyone really believe that Calista was not abused continually throughout her lifetime?

Last thing, that was NOT remorse she was just showing, she was crying for herself and the lowlife husband. Definitely not because she is sorry. She kept mouthing "I'm sorry" to the husband.
But i know in my heart these evil, vile forms of life are only sorry they got caught.

As the verdict came down, I was appalled. How could they not find them guilty of murder. When the example of them losing their freedom, a rude awakening. I think they need to feel every unpleasant situation. At some point maybe they will understand how their daughter Calista felt.

They look really good in stripes!!!

I think the jury missed the boat on this one. Even if you buy the defense notion, she slept thru the fire therefore, it was not the chain that stopped her from escape-then they are still guilty because they gave this child enough Benadryl to keep her asleep. I believe the fire was set to get rid of Calista because they were moving and they would no longer be able to hide her and their abuse. All the tears Marsha cried were for Anthony-no one cried for Calista. At the sentencing, it sicken me to see Marsha whiaper to Anthony- she was sorry. If there is true justice? She and her fellow animal will know what sorry is while they are in prison. I hope their other daughters get some help-they are also victims-to help with their desensitization of cruelty and abuse of another.

Of course the state if Michigan should make sure that Marsha has special treatment when she is in prison, this poor woman is blind and disabled. People with disabilities should be taken care of. Or the state can just stop by at a local Petsmart and pick up a doggie collar and chain her to her prison cell bed. Some people would call that justice. I would call it karma.

I wish they had done dna testing on the used condoms in the trash can to see who he was having sex with??!!!!

I'm not a judgemental person, I have a little sympathy for the parents. Chaining anybody to anything throws me in a weird space but on I also think there was a breakdown of the system. My action, as painful as it would be would've been to put the child in some sort of therapeutic facility instead of choosing the option of chaining my child to a bed. On the other hand, even if the parents went free, they're life is basically over, who would do or give their business to a child torturer? Taking in the facts, prison is the best place for these 2 individuals, I would just be worried by getting shanked.

I'm on the same page as Mike Brooks and thumbs up to the prosecuting attorney Mr McDonough.

I don't see how they were not convicted of involuntary manslaughter. With our legal system, they would have never been convicted of murder, their was no real planning and intent to "kill" Calista. Children "in the system" are at such risk of abuse, it is heart breaking. However, glory be to God, they will be imprisoned and punished. My hope is that they are able to realize where they went wrong, renew their hearts and minds, and help their other "natural" children through adulthood and life.

I have a child like her and he lie's hurt himself and beat his head on the wall's he also busted his head so i no what they are going threw now the ppl have took there children for what an accident that's what it was! The ppl have let them down and there not going to jail they let them go home and i beleve them when they said she lie because my child dose the same yea they were wrong for the chain but theres a chain the world has that you by at the store you just put it around the child's arm! Aint that wrong? It's the samething if you ask me.

anthony springer is such a control freak that i think the hardest part of his sentence will be someone else controling him. devine justice. he may also know what torture feels like firsthand when big bubba finds him adorable.

Quit trying to give slack to the beast for killing an innocent child. Marcia didn't have any problem carrying out the torture against Cilista although she suffered with diabetes and "LEGAL" blindness. Marcia chose to stay under the same roof as the serpent. What sentence would Cilista imposed if she were here? How can this be prevented from happening to other children if we don't hold the agencies and school system that turned their back on Cilista accountable? Why would the two siblings be allowed to continue a relationship with these beasts? Where is the educational value in that?

RE Springer trial:

Do you think Calista was asleep and didn't know the house was on fire after all this time of all the following activity going on downstairs getting everyone out the door and the vacuum running?

ALL WHILE CALISTA IS CHAINED TO HER BED UPSTAIRS–

Mommie Dearest wakes up - I better go have my coffee

She has her coffee - I better go wake up the girls for school

She feeds the TWO girls, makes sure they are very well fed, dressed cute, happy, gives them a kiss and sends them out the door with a big smile

Oh good, now I have time for another cup of coffee

Well, let me think, what should I do next?

I think I better vacuum the house. Calista will be fine and she won't be in my way.

MOMMIE DEAREST ISN'T AS INNOCENT AS PEOPLE MIGHT THINK

All this time Calista is upstairs "Soaked up to her armpits in urine!" (deja vu) Do you think Calista was asleep and didn't know the house was on fire after all this time of all the activity going on downstairs getting everyone out the door and the vacuum running? You bet your life she was wide awake and maybe screaming her head off but we didn't hear about that. Because Mommie Dearest was the only one home to hear. She might be blind but she isn't deaf.

CPS your next... you let this child down, I don't buy the overload as you knew this was happening!

i hope these animals will get prison justice, and i hope every minute spent in prison will seem like a year for them and why wasnt the condom issue brought out more? having condoms in a trash can? or was that animal guilty of another offense the court didnt bring up? i hope both will rot in prison and get prison justice from fellow inmates

I still can't get over the statement Anthony Springer made at his sentencing hearing! He contradicted himself so many times and just outright lied! It really showed the kind of person he is and the amount of rage he has. He never once mentioned anything about having loved Calista and just talked like she was such a thorn in his side. He never accepted full responsibility and would say, "I am sorry about what happened...but.....". Then to top it all off he throws his own mother under the bus!!! He is dispicable! How sad that this girl had to live 16 years with these cruel, heartless people. How could he testify that she never smiled when all the pictures they show are of her smiling and witnesses said she was always smiling???!! I really wish they had gotten murder one but I am happy they at least got what they did. I hope poor Calista can rest in peace now.

I think Anthoiny,And his wife'Springer" should have filed charges against children services for not helping them with their daughder.
If they would of enter vened she would still be alive today! So that Is children services falt.If any thing the springers should be held neglagent.Childern sevices gets away with to much!

How could there, at the Very Least, Not have been Negligent Homicide charges???

In regards to the Springer verdict, I think the judge's instructions were too vague. I got the impression the jury had to decide on the murder charge first. I understand that if a death results during or because of the commission of a felony, that death becomes felony murder, even if the death was accidental. ie: if during a carjacking the owner/driver falls to the ground and the carjacker drives over the driver's head or the driver falls into traffic and a passing car hits and kills the owner/driver, the carjacker is guilty of felony murder. Calista died during the commission of a felony, even if that wasn't the Springers intent. The Springers should have been found guilty of felony murder, as well as being found guilty of torture & abuse.

How is it that Anthony said how they would try to leave Calista unchained for a few days but then she would go back to getting out of bed again (as if getting out of bed is a horrible thing) but yet during trial he claimed she was only chained for a few days before the fire? Not that anyone believed him anyway but it is a contradiction and perjury.

Also, during the trial it was said that the Springers received social security benefits for Calista but yet Anthony stated they had no money to take her to the doctor. I find it hard to believe the social security benefits were not enough to cover doctors visits. Also I think the Springers may have wanted to claim Calista had special needs because of the social security they received, tax breaks, etc.... Another reason they wouldn't want to send her away for the supposed help she needed.

Another thought I had during the trial was that Calista ate large amounts in front of other people because she didn't know when she would be fed again. The same goes for eating garbage and putting things in her mouth. She was hungry and grew up not knowing when she would ever be fed. Very sad.

Either the jury needs to be redefined or the law does!

I thought the same thing Michelle! I wondered if the fire was on purpose. Seems a little funny to me. Was it ever discussed how the fire was started? I missed the very beginning of the trial.

Why will these murder's get concurrent sentences? Am I correct for thinking that means that they are serving both sentences at the same time rather than serving one and then the other after the first one is served. Which means they really don't have to serve any time for the second guilty verdict. Once again the system fails Calista. As to Nancy's comment "THESE TWO ARE CHILD MURDERS"!!!! SHE IS DEAD and would not be if she wasn't chained to the bed! And maybe you can explain why they found condoms and zip ties in the bucket. Wake up. His anger would just be shifted to one of the other girls or to the wife. You said that real murderers and rapist should be in prison and not them!!! People like you make me want to rip my hair out.

Not Guilty of Murder. Sends a message to all parents that it is OK to kill our children in a fire, while chained to a bed, knowing we, as parents will not be held accountable for the death of the child. Would that be considered “the perfect murder?

To those of you who commented and have special needs children, please know you are appreciated and admired. You words have all the more weight.

To those of you who commented and have special needs children, please know you are appreciated and admired. Your words have all the more weight.

With all the transition houses available today ,there is no reason why Marsha and her three children had to stay with ANTHONY .There are still some good people in the world who would have taken care of Calista in a heartbeat .I do think both parents are guilty of MURDER and if these two adults are allowed to get away with murder WHO AND WHAT WILL HAPPEN NEXT???????I do think the FATHER Anthony was GUILTY OF MURDER AS WELL AS MARSHA AND BEING PARTIALLY BLIND AND BRAINWASHED BY ANTHONY IS NO EXCUSE FOR SUPPORTING AND CONDONING HER HUSBAND'S SICK SICK BEHAVIOR AND NO EXCUSE FOR LENIENCY IN THE COURTS.ANTHONY IS A PERVERT AND SHOULD BE PLACED WHERE HE CAN'T DICTATE TO ANYONE ANYMORE ANYWHERE. I WOULD LOVE TO SEE A SAFE HOUSE STARTED IN CALISTA'S NAME WHERE CHILDREN FROM ABUSIVE FAMILY PARENTING HAVE A SAFE AND SECURE PLACE TO GO,CALL IT ""CALISTA'S NEW BEGINNING"

Anthony Springer is probably blaming Calista for his sentence. He blames everyone but himself.

Just even looking at the videos they showed during court, sure it showed Calista playing, BUT by herself. Especially the one in the pool. Her own father is playing with her sisters, but she is left alone, almost shunned, to play alone. At Christmas she is not on the floor with the other kids, again she is alone, not incouraged to be with the rest. I just cannot imagine what is was like for her to be chained down, what she must have gone through, or thought or felt, especially when she was dieing. You will never suffer again Calista!!!!!!

A cave man would havedont better then this. A baby was murderd and the scums got away with murder jury oh yeah they were young.just looking at springers they had some mento problems themself. I can say they looked pretty good to me in those chains except they wasn't tight enough 4 me yeah did. U see marsha sign those papers and held on being lead out. She blind want was she going 2 see that was in the floor? My bag her c in I dog.

Calista would still be alive today If childern services would have dune their job!!!!!!!! they knew,And did nothing! that makes me sick!
Some one needs to file charges,Against children services!!! Why didn't children services pull Calista out of the home?THIS IS WHAT WE NEED TO BE ASKING.

The Springers received exactly what they deserved. While others seem to have sympathy for Marcia... I do not. The woman had opportunity after opportunity to do something about the dysfunction in the family, if nothing more, get herself and her kids out of the situation. I believe she contributed big time to the abuse and torture of Calissa. I do feel for the other two daughters as they may never fully recover from this tramatic lifestyle of abuse. All of this will carry well into their adulthood and beyond. This has been a very sad court case to watch.

I have a special needs child (who is soon to be 34 yrs. old). He was very difficult to raise. It never ever occurred to me to chain him to his bed. I just do not understand how someone could possibly think that it is ok to do this.

Anthony burned the house determined that a bank would not get it and he made sure his child would go with it. Maybe he removed the so called fire extinguishers IF they exisisted days prior. Was Marsha burned at all during this fire? Also Calista seemed so polite in the home videos not jumping on kids to get to candy at that party. I never saw a sign of a child that was hard to handle. Which may be why they did not put her in a facility.

To me the most telling sign of long term systematic abuse was the chain "scar" on Calistas abdomen. Those dont come about in 3 or 4 days as stated by the monster father........I hope they both spend the rest of their miserable lives in prison, knowing that that their other girls will be living a better and normal life. The videos show much more than just a holiday scene. You can be in a room with 100 people and still feel completely alone & insignificant, as she was made to feel her whole life.

What a sad day for Callista that they were not found guilty of 1st degree murder. Everything they did took thought and planning that is premeditated. This was done on a regular basis,Sorry Callista on behalf of moral thinking people in our society today. Sorry that they are going to live at the tax payers expense of course..Sorry that your life meant so little..I on the other hand will never forget about you, You may have had problems but if you would have been given a real chance, you may have never had any problems..They did not feed you so you ate whatever. They are scum that had your life in their hands..The way you died is horrible just nightmarish.No one should be allowed to live who does things like this.

In California we have the felony murder rule, wherein, if during the commission of a felony someone dies, all parties participating in the felonious act may be charged with murder. The degree, 1st, 2nd, or lesser offenses (manslaughter-voluntary or involuntary, criminally negligent homicide,etc) depend on the circumstances.

If Michigan has the same or similar laws, why didn't the Prosecution elect to insert lesser included offenses. It seems to me the prosecution should have emphasized the actions of the PARENTS in presenting the facts that two grown adults, disability is NOT an excuse for abuse, give the jury more options to convict and lock these two up forever.

Calista had no advocate at all. Why didn't the teachers call the cops, instead of the useless DHS agency. How about contacting the media about Calista's circumstances. Calista had no chance to survive and now there are more casualties then anyone could have possibly imagined.

Both parents are responsible, the blames lies with BOTH, neither should be given mitigating or extenuating circumstances.

My prayers remain for Calista and only Calista for having been the brunt of such brutality and torture during her precious life.

mr and mrs springer should have been found guilty of murder.guilty on all charges.at the end he is still trying to blame everyone but him and his wife .his tears are onle because hes busted and hes still trying to get his wife and himself off by blaming everyone else .he even said in the sentencing that she was only chained to her bed for a couple of days.this guy cant even tell the truth when hes been found guilty.there both guilty and deserve to go to jail and never be let out.to this day he blames everyone else and dosent think they have done anything wrong this guy is not even on the same planet as everyone else good redience to bad they couldnt have done something earlier to save colista .state agencys also dropped the ball ,many people were made aware of this problem.

Marsha Springer WAS NOT emotional during the trial because the trial was about Calista.
Marsha Springer WAS emotional after the verdict because the verdict was about her!

marsha and anthony should be guilt on all charges, he is still defiant in his sentencing...NO I do not agree with the verdict.....

I agree with the verdict. It gave me chill when I heard that Mr Springer would collect road kill & later they replayed his comment that Calista would eat anything that was dead. This is a very, very sad case.

The questions I have are these: What room was the trash can with the condoms and flex cuffs found in? Was it Calista's bedroom??? I would like to see DNA tests on these condoms to see WHAT ALL Anthony Springer was up to with these girls. I think he's a controlling, evil human being with no sense of having failed to keep his daughter safe, let alone having a sense of guilt for her dying in the fire. I don't think the sentences were long enough for either of these "parents"!!!

If, as the Springers & their attorneys would like us to believe, it was the events of the 1st few months of Calista's life that caused all her problems & all her suffering, then why would being snubbed at restaurants, by the public & in church, and being imprisoned, shouldn't really cause the Springers too much anguish. What happens to a person after 13 months or so isn't damaging, according to Team Springer, so why don't they just suck it up like they expected Calista to?

Chained to a bed, Guilty in my book. There were other outs.

What is this world coming to??? I can't believe the springers didn't get MURDER!!!!! They killed that girl and they should spend the rest of there life in prison chained to a bed like they did to her. See how they like pissing all over themselves and not being able to move...... This is a SAD day...............................

I watched most of the trial. I think thay did get away with murder. They are only sorry now because they were found guilty. Tony Springer should have never been a parent. He looks like he thinks he knows more than the so called experts and you should never dis your Mom. He is totally disgusting and should rot in jail.

Jury 100% correct. When will these two really realize that the people have spoken through the court system that this was and always will be there fault and that their daughter died as a result of abuse and a dog chain around her waist. The only pearson that these parents have a right to blame are themselves and this is something they will never realize no matter what the verdict and the sentence is.Anthony is evil personafied and she is at his side all the time. I feel sorry for only one person and she is the only one who will never be able to see her life continue and be loved.

If the fire started at 8:30am, while Mrs Springer was vaccuming, WHY was Calista still chained to her bed? If the mother had already gotten the other two children up, fed breakfast and off to school, then WHY wasn't Calista up and having her breakfast? It seems to me that the mother did NOT want to be bothered.

Calista I hope you have been watching your parents (if we can call them parents) from above. I hope you found justice in seeing them convicted of torture and child abuse. (they are murderers even if they were not found guilty) Also Calista was'nt it great justice to see them come into the courtroom in chains!!!!!!! You were a beautiful young girl and may you Rest in Peace! I never knew you but I will never ever forget you ever!!!!!

I hope Tony shows as much remorse at his parole hearings as he did during his sentence statement. That would assure he does the full time.

In regards to the Springer verdict, I think the judge's instructions were too vague. I got the impression the jury had to decide on the murder charge first. I understand that if a death results during or because of the commission of a felony, that death becomes felony murder, even if the death was accidental, ie: if during a carjacking the driver/owner falls to the ground and the carjacker drives over the driver's head or the owner/driver falls into passing traffic and is hit and killed by a passing motorist, the carjacker is guilty of felony murder even though the carjacker didn't intend for the car owner to die. Calista died during the commission of a felony, even if her death wasn't the Springers intent. The Springers should have been found guilty of felony murder, (as well as torture & abuse).
I also wondered why the coroner or a forensic pathologist didn't give testimony about how old the chain scars on Calista's waist were. I don't believe those marks/scars developed in two or three days. Forensic testimony would have been scientific proof that Tony Springer lied when swearing under oath that Calista was only chained for a couple of days before the fire, rather than just depending on multiple testimony regarding whether she (as I believe) was chained for years or "two or three days".

What never came out in the trial was, Calista died in the fire at around 8:30 a.m. If the fire had not happened what time would Marsha have released her from her chain? On all the other days she was chained, what time was she released from the chain? The only persons during the week that was home was Marsha and Calista. Would Marsha have left her in chains later in the morning, later in the day, not until she knew someone would be coming home from school or work? I believe Tony and Marsha should have received the same sentence for their actions.
Patti – McKean, PA

I did not believe a thing the springers said. Of course your going to be sorry when you get caught. They SHOULD have been charged with murder, what else do you call it when your daughtors death is a result of your actions!

The Jury did it's job, The Prosecuttion did their job, Under very difficult circumstances...I am hopeing the judge gives him no special consideration at all...she is at least remorseful.

What was the jury thinking! They are GUILTY of first degree murder!

The Jury should have come back with a guilty verdict for murder. Calista died as a result of the comission of a felony. Found guilty of torture and 1st degree child abuse= felony murder!

I cannot believe the jury found them guilty of abuse and torture but not guilty of causing Calista's death. Anthony Springer revealed his true nature when he blamed everyone, including Calista, the so called liar, and a munipulator . He does what all abusers do,blame the victim, a child.

I am really surprised. I thought that if a person dies in the act of committing a crime (child abuse, Torture) the offenders are responsible for that death. Does this law only apply to certain state ?

I watched this trial in horror. My heart went out to this poor little girl. I wish their sentences would have been more. This little girl never had a happy moment in her life. She is now with God and at peace. What did these parents show their other daughters on how to properly raise children. Even the daughter lied about the treatment of Calista. How is this considered acceptable. The parents have no soul.

This entire case was horrifying! There are so many 'special needs" children out there ...whose parents cherish every moment with them.

How sad for Calista... that she was mistreated her very short life.

May God forgive all who failed this precious little girl..

Congradulations to the Prosecution team for putting the scum bag Springers away for years.They are to be commended for the fantastic evidence and court proceedings they used.Those lousy parents need to suffer as much as that poor child did and so hope the imates thay are with will do something to them. That poor child ( Calista ) should be alive and enjoying her life and as far as Courney is concerned she was brainwashed by the Springers and told all lies to protect her parents and hope she wakes up someday

The verdict did not surprise me.I have lost all faith in our judicial system.It left me with many unanswered questions, For example,,Why were the Springers allowed to sit in Court behind their Defense team, dressed as casual observers?I have never seen this done before. Where did Marsha and the girls live when she got the restraining order against Anthony?Did Calista stay with her when they separated?
If so, Was she restrained then when her Father wasn't there?How did a vacuum cleaner that was unplugged catch on fire?How did a legally blind woman take it apart and put it back together, How did she know where the dirt was to vacuum?So many questions I will never have answers to.I am relieved that the jury found them guilty on the abuse and torture charges.Too bad the punishment didnt fit the crime., although I thought they both looked nice in their green striped outfits with the matching accessories(handcuffs).Hope they think about Calista every waking moment for the rest of their dreadful lives!

I have been watching this trial sence it came on and i have to say this.. may her parents burn in hell for what they put that poor child threw NO child desevers that NO human for that fact.. I am so glad that the child is now in a place where she is SAFE from people like this.. they are both sorry excuses for human begings.. i would love to see them get done to them what they did to her...

just don't make another mistake and let them get out on any appeal

the cause of fire was not exactly determined

This is sickening. I just don't understand how people can do things like this to a child. They got what they deserved. Personally, I believe they should be tortured themselves for the rest of their meaningless lives. What rotten disgusting people! Hell, that isn't even the right words for them. I have no sympathy for child abusers.

I'm sorry but if my child was a danger to herself and the family,i definately would not leave her with a legally blind woman.The question of the day GUILTY,GUILTY,AND GUILTY FOR BOTH MONSTERS. THEY ARE PATHETIC........I can't even believe the verdict..On first degree felony murder the only thing was ,did they start the fire.Other than that the shoe fit.The facts proven without a doubt are that she was chained like a dog and couldn't get out of the fire. Tony even testified they had a fire plan, obviously he's not a rocket scientist. I'll tell you what else the protective order was telling what a true monster Tony was.I really can't believe this. I have recorded the trial everyday while i worked.My jaw dropped to hear the verdict.... absolutely unbelievable..I use to sleep walk as a child and actually left the house and my mother never chained me like a dog in my bed.

They are certainly guilty of false imprisonment, child neglect and now murder. Too bad some states don't have the death penalty for those who commit crimes against children.
CPS sure dropped the ball if there had been previous concerns with this couple. May be the caseworker should be tried as well?

I think that they should have been convicted of 1st degree murder, The fact that the mother did not even bother to get her daughter out of that house just goes to show that there is something wrong. Almost like the house catching on fire was like an answer to her prayers to end "the bad tantrums". Im sorry but ANY normal human being would have gotten their child out of a burning house. Or wait better yet a normal person would not have chained a child to a bed with a dog choke collar. Did anyone else find it very odd that the family claimed that she ate all the time yet she was soooo tiny... This poor little girl did not deserve what her parents did to her. And DFS should have done their jobs and helped this little girl out of the position that she was in. It is their job is it not. If you cant handle the fact that your son is going to iraq then you need to take a leave of absence from your job. Because you ignored a child's cry for help, and choose your own selfish act of not hearing her, this innocent child will never be able to grow up and live life like she should have. This child suffered for no reason. She turned to DFS for help and they shot her down. I no longer have faith in the system because of one persons selfish act. Both DFS case workers on this case should be charged with murder also. My thoughts and prayers go out to this little girl and the tragic life she lived for 16 years. My Calista rest in peace free from her chains.

dog choke collars are for dogs...not people

I understand why they weren't convicted of first-degree murder. You have to prove intent and I honestly don't think they wanted to "kill" Calista. They definately should've been convicted of second-degree murder. She was chained to the bed and they left her in there. A fire started. If she wasn't chained to that bed, she wouldn't have died. It just doesn't make any sense to me. These parents clearly abused and tortured Calista. There doing a lot of time for that. Thank God. I'm glad the jury saw it from Calista's side. God bless her.

It doesn't matter that Marsha may have been scared of Anthony. She still decided to leave Calista chained to her bed when Anthony went off to work. That poor child was tied up all night yet she decided to clean her house. The protection order she had on Anthony means nothing to me because if she had a heart when he went to work she should have released her from that chain. They both should have been GUILTY of 1st Degree Murder!

What a disgrace for our court system with such horrendous abuse of an innocent child – how could the jury not give 2nd degree murder as this poor girl died due to the parents having her chained to the bed when the fire broke out and then the mother doing nothing and as a mother you spontaneously just run for the daughter-with sick minds that abuse children of course she did not have a "normal mind"-both very sick parents and should spend the rest of their lives in prison and yes, then they can feel what it is like to be imprisoned! And yes, you look at DUI with innocent people killed and they are found guilty and many others. And then, absolutely no remorse showing for either of them and also the system let this child down, another "slipped thru the cracks" useless death of a child!

i couldn't believe THEY GOT AWAY WITH MURDER!!!!!!!! After hearing a little bit about Marsha filing a protective order against Tony, it seemed like she was a little bit of a victim herself. Being blind, she could not care for Calista, and if she was "special needs" she should have been placed in a facility that could care for her, not with a blind mother and a nut for a father. Ultimately, it was murder. Although the fire caused her death, the chain was the reason she could not escape. I hope they receive a long sentence so they have plenty of time to think about what they did to Calista. It's INSANE!

Its about time that animals like them are put away in cages where they belong. I personally think that the same torture they put that poor young girl through, should be done to them. Now maybe the other two daughters will have some chance at a normal life. I hope they are both put in long term counseling- it would be a shame if 20 years from now they could be doing the same thing to their children.

It was a difficulte case to listen to. this child was failed by the system . at least the parents are being punished and calista is at peace no one will ever hurt her again.

This verdict is all wrong!!!!!!!!

Both got what they deserved and he is more of an evil callous animal, as Calista was his flesh and blood. He allowed Marcia to do what she wanted to "HIS" daughter. He hooked up with a woman from his past, (after he took control of Calista) to obviously help take care of his daughter and give Calista a better life. He did not have a clue and needed a woman to help him. I am sure he could have found her a loving home as he obviously did not love Calista. Both are cruel and evil and need to sit in jail for at least 20 years. She called the shots and he gave her free reign, allowing her to torture his kid. They treated her like an animal . What a coward of a piece of man.

This child would've been best served in the foster care system. She was kept solely for her social security benefits by the Springers. Social services,the school system,social security should reform the benefit packages to any child who is pulled out of of school to be home schooled to implement mandatory, unannounced social workers to check the homes of these types of children. Calista was abused and definitely tortured and he himself (the fool) admitted to it and I'm certain lied and made up things on the witness stand to make her behaviors seem like they were at an alltime high. Her teachers never saw any of these behaviors. Mrs Springer will no doubt use her blindness to gain sympathy once behind bars. May there be someone there to ascertain her food at their will and dispense justice to her and her stupid husband day and night.

These parents should of been sentenced to murder. They killed this child. By there severe neglect of this child. If she wasn't tied to the bed she could of got out and lived. If they went to get her she would be a live also. They are guilty. There is no question about this. I hope they rot in jail and the other prisioners torcher them for a long time. This in injustice of this charge. I also think that the officals who looked the other way when this girl wrote the note and was telling them about being tied shoud be charged also. They are just as guilty of her death by not doing nothing. They sat there and watched. How sad and shame on everyone involved. You people are sick to let this happen. You should take a second look at yourselves. You failed this girl. How can you sleep at night. I couldn't.

Since they were not found guilty of murder maybe they should be put in prison chained to a bed while the cell bursts in flames then they will know the real pain calista went through.

when marsha was crying for her baby the day of the fire was she refering to her dog or calista , that was not made clear for me as many people refer to their dog as their baby

They were warned over and over again not to do what they did and look what happened to this child to me that is FIRST DEGREE MURDER for the both of them.

What made it worse she knew what kind of man he is and was and still continued staying with horrible man so as far as I am concerned she is just as guilty as he is even more so and that is a fact.

In response to a post by Rhonda on the 23rd of April. I don't think Sue Langdon abused Tony as a child, I got the impression that it was his father who he apparently emulated. They got off easy. I'm convinced they set the fire to get rid of Calista who would have revealed the abuse and also out of rage that they were losing the house. They probably thought the community would gather around them, put them up in a house and shower them with clothing, furniture and money to get a fresh start. They pitied themselves so much but others saw right thru them. What a surprise that must have been to them. Masha's smirk dissappeared on sentencing day. I hope she spends the rest of her worthless life in tears. Tony will be brought down a notch or two. Marsha kept telling him she was so sorry....only sorry for her and Tony. There should be consequences for the social workers who let Calista down. So many silent bystanders in this tragic story of a beautiful little girl. May she rest in peace. She won't be forgotten!

Calista is at peace now.The two devils that were raising her will no longer hurt this little girl.I just wish the parents could of been put in prission for life.They have showed no remorse for what they did ,just blaming others.Social Services and the Police Dept. have got to get it together.This could of been preventing.Thank God for this wonderful jury. They did not fall for the springers lies.

i think the jury was wrong.... they were wrong all the way. i know they got prison time but no way should they get away with murder. yes second degree at the least. the parents, i know are thinking they got away with it. its sick to know someone can get away with doing somthing like that to a child. im so up set and discusted to know thats all they got convicted of. i hope and prey they get the same torture they did to calista. that little girl got nothing her whole life, and still that she is in her grave she still gets nothing. they should be chained to a bed while the cell bursts in flames then they will know real pain. its not fair to her.

My mother was raised in a similar situation, raised by a step-mother and her biological father She felt that after her two younger sisters were born, her step-mother's abuse started. Had it not been for her father believing her, she knows she would have lived a similar life. She left home when she was 16. She is in her 80's now but still talks about her childhhood. I think situations like this should be carefuly monitored. As for the
SPRINGERS , I think they should live the rest of their lives in jail!!!

I am so glad the verdict came out the way it did! As though more people should be blamed maybe – I don't feel the mother and father ever took the blame for her death at all! They blamed everyone but themselves!!!! This girl had so many problems I feel in the mental state she was a little child like behavior wise!!!! A dog choke collar is the most horrible way of punishment you could have!!!! The favoritism of the other kids is so obvious!!!!!! This poor little girl couldn't help but act out!!!!

This may be one of the saddest trials I've seen, not on the behalf of these so-called parents but for Calista (RIP)..I can't even wrap my mind around how this CHILD must have felt her whole life, not to mention her final minutes of life...OMG! who are these jurors? The Michigan justice system? I hope the Springers spend the rest of their life behind bars, confined like they confined Calista. NO PAROLE! !! NO PAROLE!!! The Springers didn't show Calista any mercy and I don't think they should be shown any mercy...They abused and tortured Calista and they are responsible for her death, and who are these people they have working for Child Protective Services. If it had not been for The Springers Calista would still be alive.

I believe they are guilty of murder. The fire would have not killed her if she was not chain to the bed. I hope they sentence them to the max.

Maybe it's different in Michigan, but I thought if you were commiting a felony and someone dies during the commission of, and as a result of your commission of that felony, you can be charged with Felony Murder? If they are guilty of abuse and torture (tying her to a bed), why wouldn't they be guilty of murder?

Although I think they should have been charged for poor Calistas murder, I'm glad that they will be spending a great portion of the rest of thier lives behind bars. Maybe the ruling should have included chaining them to a bed with the dog chain they used to torture thier daughter. I think they need to be put in Calistas shoes and see how it felt.

Such a sad story. It breaks my heart that Callista's parents would leave her chained to her bed while the house burned. I don't believe they made any effort to save the poor child.

Rest In Peace, Callista.

I can see how the jury would have a hard time convicting on first degree murder because there was no evidence that there was a premeditated intent to kill Calissa. I think the stepmother did intend to leave her in the fire. There was just no evidence to prove that beyond a reasonable doubt. It is so tragic about what happened to this little girl. I am glad the judge sentenced them both to the maximum sentences. I think the step mother should have gotten the same as her husband or more though.

This is what happens when let jurors decide what is best for another life. Why should we leave their faith in the hands of ordinary people? I say do on to them as they done to Calista, see how they feel about it. I know we shouldnt judge when it comes to crimes against children people deserve to die.

I'm holding back the mean comments that I want to say, because I read the grandmother's comments and I know that Calista would forgive these people. My heart bleeds for the pain this human being suffered at the hands of these so called parents. Not one loving word about this beautiful girl. I saw the smiles that her father said he never saw, the love that was in those smiles. God bless you Calista you touched many, many hearts.

I, personally, feel that the parents should be chained to bed every night for the rest of their natural life. No one to release them to use the rest room or check to see if the restraint is too tight. They also should be made to inhale smoke (2nd hand smoke) every single night.

Calista, a human being, was treated in this manner, the parents saw no problem with it; they should get the same treatment and let's see what the complaint would be on their behalf.

i hope to god these people who do not need to be called people,get the max.life in prison.and in no way to see the outside world again. i feel that they murdered their child,but yet saved the dog.

i watched parts of this trial, i hope both get life, plus how dare they torture a special needs child. I work with developmentally disabled, who could be aggressive, but you don't dare hit or torture them.

let's put them in prison, and chain them to their beds so that they cannot
get up at night and may have to wet their beds. they are disgusting people and looking at them makes me sick to my stomach, i cried for calista a child who had no one to love her.

I feel that they got away with murder. they chained her to a bed and left her to die. they abused her among other things, I followed this case on insession and they should have been put to death. I feel that is the only justice in this case for that little girl.

I have lived in Michigan for over 60 years. I can tell you from past experience that the welfare of the child is seldom worried about in our court systems. For some unfathombale reason the judges believe anything a woman complains when she says a man is abusive to her or the children, but it does not happen in reverse. I know of several cases where the children would have been much better off with the father, but that old-fashioned idea that mothers are protectors seems to linger over many of our judges heads. Many of these children live in less than desirable situations and are left there by social services and the court system. Yes, Michigan is for "women". A place where women have free run in the court systems and seldom are the children taken away from these freaks until it is too late. They should both rot in jail. They are lucky I was not on their jury. Too many jurors these days watch too much TV court shows and try and analyze things that do not have to be analyzed. Start using common sense.

I watched this trial, this made me sick to think these people got away with abuse of this child ,the school let her down and so did the social workers you people let this child down and as far I am concerned you are guilty as well .may god help your soul ,you have to live with this ,I hope you can slept at night ,shame on you. good people go to heaven bad people don"t.

Murder 1 and Torture. Both of them. No question in my mind. Didn't deserve her. Sweet, ptrcious, and undefended by anyone in that house. Calista hadn't a chance and they didn't care one tiny ounce about her. Life in prison. No less.