Prosecutors convinced of guilt
Amanda Knox might be put on trial once again. Italian prosecutors remain convinced that Knox and former boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito are guilty of the 2007 murder of Meredith Kercher in Perugia, Italy.
In 2009, American Amanda Knox and Raffaele Sollecito were convicted of sexual assault, murder and simulating a burglary at the first level of trial. However, according to Italian law, she would not be considered guilty until a verdict was confirmed by higher courts. During her appeal at the second level of trial, questions were raised towards the prosecutor’s theory about the crime and quality of evidence. An independent review cast doubt on DNA evidence, and the appellate court ruled that prosecution’s case did not stand up. In October of last year, the original conviction was overturned; Knox was found innocent of murder and was released from prison. Sollecito’s conviction was also overturned.
Italian prosecutors have filed an appeal to the highest court seeking a new trial for Amanda Knox and Raffaele Sollecito. The Supreme Court will not hear any new evidence; though, they will rule strictly on the appeal presented by the prosecution and whether or not proper legal procedures have been followed. If granted, prosecutors could retry Knox in absentia. Knox could face extradition if convicted. Knox is not required to attend the Supreme Court hearing.
In the original case, the prosecution suggested that the killing was a result of a situation combining drugs and rough sex gone awry involving the victim, the two defendants and a third man, Rudy Guede. The victim was found in the house the she shared, semi-naked with her throat slit. Guede was found guilty of participating in a homicide and is serving a 16-year sentence.
Lawyers and family of Amanda Knox are not concerned, stating that the appeal was expected. Knox’s defense has appealed the same case asking the Supreme Court to overthrow her conviction on slander charges.
