Amanda Knox Verdict: Jeff Weiss

Did Amanda Knox receive a fair trial? Probably not. There were gaping holes in the prosecution's case. There was no physical evidence of Knox found at the crime scene – no finger prints, not even a strand of hair. Not one witness could place her anywhere near the crime scene on the night of the murder. DNA experts questioned the little evidence that was presented by the prosecution. The case itself is tied to the career of a prosecutor who is under indictment for professional misconduct. Since the murder of Knox's roommate Meredith Kercher in 2007, the Italian media has painted Knox as a sex-crazed killer, calling her a "devil with an angel's face.” Knoxhas been the center of so much media attention that she was named the most famous woman in Italy in a poll last year.

And now, a 22 year old student has been sentenced to 26 years in prison. Of course, there will be an appeal. But even if Knox is found not guilty in an appeal and released, so much of her life has been taken from her it is hard to imagine things will ever be “normal” for her again. The family of Meredith Kercher has said they are satisfied with the outcome of the trial. If I were them, I'd be asking for more answers. At the very least, for the sake of Meredith Kercher's memory.

Email Jeff