John Couey's penalty phase - retardation defense

@AndiCat (325)
United States
March 14, 2007 2:39pm CST
As I sit and type this, the closing arguments are happening in the penalty phase of John Couey's trial. He is the man convicted of the kidnapping, rape, and murder of 9-year-old Jessica Lunsford in Florida. The decision now is life or death for him. The defense is claiming mental retardation on the part of the defendant and claim that his IQ is in the mid-60's. Mental redardation is diagnosed at a level of 70 or lower. The defendant sits coloring and organizing his colored pencils as the court scene happens around him. Do you feel that this is an act on the part of the defense? Are we being taken for a ride? Do you feel that this man is mentally challenged? IF so, do you still think the death penalty would be appropriate?From the police tapes that I have seen where Couey was being interrogated by the police, he did not seem mentally retarded, in my opinion.
1 person likes this
1 response
• United States
28 Mar 07
I tend to agree with you on the mental retardation copout. I don't believe that for one second. He's just a very sick man and needs the toughest penalty. That still makes me so sick. That poor child.
@AndiCat (325)
• United States
1 Apr 07
I figured it wouldn't hold water. He did apparently have a bad childhood, BUT that is no excuse. Thanks for commenting - my only one! LOL