Tuesday, May 24, 2011

George Anthony - First Witness In Murder Trial

Father Testifies For State - Daughter's Life On The Line

Following a blockbuster, and amazing opening statement by Casey Anthony's attorney Jose Baez, the State of Florida has called Casey's father George Anthony to testify.

The witness' background, his marriage to Cindy, two children, and former job as a member of the Trumbull County, Ohio Sheriff's Office, and later Ohio business experience  was explored by the prosecutor briefly for the benefit of introducing the witness to the 12-member jury in this 1st degree murder trial. 

The family moved to Florida in 1989 and have lived at the same home on Hope Spring Drive since. The first exhibit published by the state in the trial was a photo of the family's home.

Mr. Anthony said he was "extremely excited" when he learned of Casey's pregnancy, even went with her to some doctor appointments, but was concerned of the ramifications of being a single mother. He said he wanted to know who the father was, and would been great to meet him, but never did meet a "Mr. Baker," adding that Casey said it was not known for sure who the father was.

On questioning about the day of June 15, 2008, the last time he ever saw his granddaughter, Mr. Anthony said the morning was normal as he cared for his grandchild Caylee, watching videos (among her favorites was "The Lady and the Tramp") and playing. 

Later that day Casey and Caylee left, Casey explaining Caylee would be staying with the mysterious "Zanni" the baysitter.

He Said, She Said - Father vs. Daughter

Upon direct questioning, Mr. Anthony denied ever abusing or molesting Casey sexually, and denied ever seeing grandchild Caylee again after the 16th of June, 2008, and denying placing duct tape over the mouth and face of Caylee, or having any other knowledge of what happened to Caylee until her remains were discovered in December 2008.

Upon cross examination by defense attorney Baez, Mr. Anthony said he didn't now about Casey's pregnancy until her seventh month when Cindy and Casey sat down with him to announce it. Baez tried unsuccessfully to get him to admit he knew of the pregnancy earlier, badgering him, even asking "You have no trouble with your vision?"

4 comments:

  1. Anonymous5:07 PM

    where are george and cindy anthony from? and what is george's ethnicity?

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  2. Anonymous12:48 PM

    I think that the Anthony family is of Italian extraction and most lilkely changed their name to get ahead in life. Italians are not that respected in Ohio.

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  3. Anonymous9:55 PM

    Where in Ohio are Italians not respected? I'm from Cleveland and have no idea what you're talking about.

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  4. Anonymous9:42 PM

    He definitely changed his name, but why?

    ReplyDelete