The use of circumstantial evidence in convicting defendants in high profile murder cases

Abstract

The use of circumstantial evidence in proving the guilt of defendants in high profile murder cases has evolved. There have been several cases in particular that exemplify this. This thesis aims to descri?e the persuasiveness of circumstantial evidence in proving the guilt of a defendant. It also aims to demonstrate that the defendants' actions, behaviors and appearances, which were once only commented upon by the media and public, have become admissible and convincing evidence because they indicate a consciousness of guilt. This thesis will highlight the aspects of the media's role in covering high profile murder cases and how this involvement impacted the cases.

In order to show how the circumstantial evidence, including the defendant's behavior was sufficient to warrant a conviction at trial, the bulk of this thesis will examine various highly publicized cases and the evidence presented. This thesis will also discuss how the media has allowed high profile defendants to be tried in part, by public opinion. By examining the dynamics of several high profile murder cases that were prosecuted based on circumstantial evidence, this thesis will show the evolution of such evidence and its effectiveness in our present day courts.

Notes

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Thesis Completion

2009

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Cook, Kathy

Degree

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

College

College of Health and Public Affairs

Degree Program

Legal Studies

Subjects

Dissertations, Academic -- Health and Public Affairs;Health and Public Affairs -- Dissertations, Academic

Format

Print

Identifier

DP0022303

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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