Kobe Gets Off

It was inevitable. Kobe Bryant walks. There was zero chance of this trial resulting in a conviction. The defense lawyers were smarter, better informed, more experienced and more organized than the prosecution. Add to that the fact that the evidence was weak against Kobe Bryant, and the burden of proof was high, and the prosecution was doomed. If the prosecutors hadn't been so stubborn, this case could have been dismissed weeks, if not months, ago. I suspect that they dragged this on just so that they could have a more graceful exit. But anyone who understands the legal process can see right through their false claims of faith in their case. The case was a loser.

I'm thinking about starting a pool. How many hours do you think it will be before the first book about the failure of the prosecution hits the bookstore? I'll start by guessing....100.

....

Here is the text of Kobe's apology, which appears to be the only concession he made to get the dismissal with prejudice.

First, I want to apologize directly to the young woman involved in this incident. I want to apologize to her for my behavior that night and for the consequences she has suffered in the past year. Although this year has been incredibly difficult for me personally, I can only imagine the pain she has had to endure. I also want to apologize to her parents and family members, and to my family and friends and supporters, and to the citizens of Eagle, Colo.

I also want to make it clear that I do not question the motives of this young woman. No money has been paid to this woman. She has agreed that this statement will not be used against me in the civil case. Although I truly believe this encounter between us was consensual, I recognize now that she did not and does not view this incident the same way I did. After months of reviewing discovery, listening to her attorney, and even her testimony in person, I now understand how she feels that she did not consent to this encounter.

I issue this statement today fully aware that while one part of this case ends today, another remains. I understand that the civil case against me will go forward. That part of this case will be decided by and between the parties directly involved in the incident and will no longer be a financial or emotional drain on the citizens of the state of Colorado.”

Is this evidence of his guilt? Um, I'd have written that, too, even if I never touched the girl, if it would save me a few hundred large in fees. Even if I knew I was going to be acquitted. So, I would say, no. This is not evidence of his guilt.