Amanda Knox verdict: Conviction overturned, she goes free

(Photo by MIKE SIEGEL/Seattle Times, used with permission)
12:51 PM: Just in from Italy: Amanda Knox‘s conviction is overturned, per the live feed we are watching on KING. Sobs erupted in the courtroom. The slander charge, regarding something Knox said in the police interrogation regarding a bar owner for whom she had worked, is the only one that was not overturned. CNN is posting one-liner updates here. Perugia is nine hours ahead, so it’s already well into evening there; the day in court started with Knox, who grew up in West Seattle and has family here, and co-defendant Raffaele Sollecito both pleading their case. Our partners at the Seattle Times have been tracking the developments overnight here, and are with the “Friends of Amanda Knox” group that had gathered at a downtown hotel to watch developments. “Amanda’s coming home, and that’s what we wanted,” a family friend has just told KING in a live report from that gathering.

1:01 PM: “We’re thankful that Amanda’s nightmare is over. She suffered four years for a crime she did not commit,” Knox’s sister Deanna Knox has just told the media in a news conference broadcast live. “…We now respectfully ask you to give Amanda and all of our family the privacy we need to recover from this ordeal.”

1:38 PM: Lots of comments from all over the region, nation, and world – including a statement from King County Executive Dow Constantine:

“Today’s acquittal is a dramatic vindication for Amanda and her family and friends here in West Seattle. I cannot be more pleased at this emotional outcome in the Italian court. Her family has been unrelenting in their pursuit of justice. After so much agony, their four-year ordeal can now come to an end.”

2:19 PM: Changed photos atop this story – the new one, also from the Times, is of the Seattle group that had gathered to await the decision, celebrating as it was announced. Meantime, there is word that Amanda Knox has just left the Italian prison and is now officially free.

5:24 PM: This account, among others, says she and her family will fly home from Italy tomorrow.

hurray! October 3, 2011 (12:53 pm)

Yay!!!!! SO HAPPY FOR HER AND HER FAMILY!!! This was the RIGHT thing to do!

hurrayx2 October 3, 2011 (12:54 pm)

you scooped the Times! they don’t have it up yet.

Andrew October 3, 2011 (12:55 pm)

Hooray!

CCW October 3, 2011 (12:56 pm)

Very few people really know what happened that night, but the legal process was clearly flawed, so this is the correct result.

Alki Resident October 3, 2011 (12:59 pm)

Its a great day for West Seattle.Cant wait to welcome Amanda home.

BB October 3, 2011 (1:02 pm)

So happy she is finally released!!!!

WS Suzanne October 3, 2011 (1:02 pm)

Fantastic news!!! West Seattle welcomes you back home Amanda!!! Finally, the horrible nightmare is over.

monroe1200 October 3, 2011 (1:07 pm)

ABOUT TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A October 3, 2011 (1:07 pm)

Interesting. I think she’s guilty of something.

Diane October 3, 2011 (1:08 pm)

watching live on ch7; weeping tears of joy that Amanda is coming home

CB October 3, 2011 (1:10 pm)

Way to go Amanda. Welcome home.

msc October 3, 2011 (1:10 pm)

Welcome home Knox family! I am happy and releived for you all. Cathy, a West Seattle neighbor

Meghan October 3, 2011 (1:11 pm)

Finally!! What should have been obvious to anyone with a brain is confirmed. What a shame Amanda and Rafael were denied 4 precious years of their lives. But thank god the truth came out. I hope those people who allowed the press to convince them she was guilty have learned a valuable lesson.

DH October 3, 2011 (1:11 pm)

I am crying tears of joy, I am so happy for Amanda and her family. She has lived a nightmare.

Speedy October 3, 2011 (1:11 pm)

I don’t know how much longer this link will stay up but the Daily Mail (UK) was clearly hedging their bets and had both verdicts ready to go:

Guilty:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2044583/Amanda-Knox-verdict-GUILTY-appeal-murder-conviction-rejected.html?ito=feeds-newsxml

Not Guilty:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2044585/Amanda-Knox-verdict-Freed-appeal-court-overturns-murder-conviction.html

Kill your television October 3, 2011 (1:12 pm)

The prosecutor is corrupt, the gathering of evidence was a sham, and the case showed the lack of integrity of the Italian court system. Tears of joy for Amanda and family. This went on way too long and I’m sure financially wrecked her family. C’mon home Amanda!

Peter Griffin October 3, 2011 (1:18 pm)

Babadaboopy! Boobidity ba ba!!

Westside J. October 3, 2011 (1:19 pm)

About time!! Im so glad!

aimymichelle October 3, 2011 (1:21 pm)

so happy about this.

Rick P. October 3, 2011 (1:23 pm)

Happy Happy!! Joy Joy!!! It’s a great day!!

patty October 3, 2011 (1:29 pm)

heart wrenching to watch amanda before the verdict. now she and her family need privacy to absorb and heal.

WestSeattleDrew October 3, 2011 (1:29 pm)

Yes!! Finally!

Lisa October 3, 2011 (1:33 pm)

Whether Knox was initially wrongfully convicted or a murderer was set free today, I think the true shame of this whole debacle – STILL – is the lack of real justice for Meredith Kercher or of any answers for her family.

Melissa October 3, 2011 (1:38 pm)

cheers of joy for an innocent woman to come home!

dawn house October 3, 2011 (1:38 pm)

BOO!!!!!!!!!!!!too bad Meredths family wont see her again. I hope you stay out of West Seattle.Go do your cart wheels some where else.

NotMe October 3, 2011 (1:38 pm)

Huh… after a couple of changes of the story, and she is guilty. But, now she is free. Not everybody is ready to believe she is 100% innocent all of a sudden.

The Shadow October 3, 2011 (1:40 pm)

‘Not proven guilty’ is not necessarily synonymous with ‘innocent’. There are, and always will be, a lot of unanswered questions surrounding this case. Four people knew the truth; three are still alive. I’m with CCW on this one.

It is curious, though, that all the media attention, worldwide as well as US, focused on Ms. Knox. Mr. Sollecito was an equal co-defendant, and there seemed to be only a fraction of the media attention focused on him.

Perhaps it’s not just the American media that finds ‘pretty-young-white-women-in-trouble’ irrestistable?

Monosyllabic Girl October 3, 2011 (1:50 pm)

Why are all replies in italics ? LOL

Oh, and very happy for you, Curt.

WSB October 3, 2011 (1:53 pm)

Sorry, Mono, thanks for mentioning it – when I added the Dow C quote, I didn’t close the code. Fixed now – TR

mookie October 3, 2011 (1:53 pm)

“Knox freed! (unattractive male non-American also let go).”

WS commuter October 3, 2011 (1:53 pm)

To Lisa – I would point out that the person who’s DNA was actually found on Ms. Kercher’s body – Mr. Guede – was convicted. So I’m not sure I can agree with you that “justice” has not been served.

However, the complete lack of credible evidence to convict either Ms. Knox or Mr. Sollicete made their convictions a farce and a sham.

and to “A” … what a pointless, meaningless comment. Do tell; of what?

To the Knox family – God bless and Godspeed …

To the Kercher family – God bless and God’s peace and comfort be upon you all.

me on 28th Ave SW October 3, 2011 (1:54 pm)

That the real murdier Rudy Goede is in prison for the murder of Meredith Kercher is justice although he should not have been cut such a sweet deal in regards to the years he will spend behind bars. But that is the reward he got for trying to give the prosecutor his titillating headlines of “Foxy Knoxy’s kinky sex gone wrong”. No matter what, the Kercher family doesn’t get justice because they never get their daughter back. Ruining two other families by locking up their innocent children for years does not add up to justice either.

Anne October 3, 2011 (1:54 pm)

If I’m not mistaken someone is in prison convicted of this murder-Rudy Guede.

Diane October 3, 2011 (2:01 pm)

Peter Van Sant just interviewed by kiro7 in Italy, says his parents live in West Seattle, and that we should expect all of the international media to be crowding into our neighborhood very soon (I didn’t even think about that); so very happy that Amanda is coming home; she is so lucky to have such a devoted family

WSB October 3, 2011 (2:07 pm)

Diane – absolutely. We just got a call from Radio New Zealand, of all places, seeking OUR perspective on local reaction. Which isn’t something we would even pretend to be authorities on – the discussion is all here and in a million other different places, for anybody to read, so we gave them other recommendations. If the family has good advisers – sure hope they do – they will schedule a news conference shortly after arriving in the U.S., whether they land in Seattle or New York or whatever, take questions, and NOT inadvertently set up a situation where they will be hounded until they finally speak. Doesn’t mean, sadly, they will entirely be left alone, but it might reduce the pressure … TR

christina October 3, 2011 (2:01 pm)

CONGRATULAZIONI AMANDA!!!!!!

LA DOLCE VITA!!!!!

Kayleigh October 3, 2011 (2:11 pm)

I wish this story was now over, but now she will continue to annoy us as a media star.

Diane October 3, 2011 (2:12 pm)

vehicles leaving prison now

Cclarue October 3, 2011 (2:13 pm)

Yay she’s free!!! So happy for her family!!!

Michael October 3, 2011 (2:14 pm)

This is wonderful news. I watched the video of Amanda’s reaction to the verdict, and had tears roll down my face. I’m in complete admiration of Amanda’s family and all the supporters of Amanda and her family. I hope they get the rest they need, and I wish Amanda the best of luck as she continues her life, now outside of prison.

rusty smith October 3, 2011 (2:22 pm)

Yet again what a sad state of affairs our world is coming too.West Seattle does NOT welcome you EVER!!!!!Karma is a B* Ms Knox!!!!!

don'tforgetMeredith October 3, 2011 (2:23 pm)

I am very happy and relieved for Amanda, Raffaelle, and their families, but my joy that justice was done in their case is tempered by sadness for the victim and her family, and outrage that the only person convicted of this horrible crime and the one that fed prosecutors fabricated lies about Amanda and Raffaelle, Rude Guede, got off with an incredibly light sentence. I wonder if in light of today’s decision the Italians can go back and give him a stiffer sentence?

Lisa Y October 3, 2011 (2:23 pm)

I am so very happy for the Knox and Sollecito’s families. The right verdict was read. I always belived Amanda was innocent.

clark5080 October 3, 2011 (2:24 pm)

Welcome Home glad to have you back as our neighbor

James October 3, 2011 (2:32 pm)

Unlike OJ we don’t know if she did it. But inconclusive is Not Guilty.

L October 3, 2011 (2:34 pm)

To Kayleigh – ok really? She spent 4 years in jail for a crime she clearly didn’t commit and was the unwilling subject of a media spotlight and you’re feeling ‘annoyed’ by that? As if she intended it, or signed up to be a reality tv star? Oh POOR YOU. We should just shut down the media so your delicate sensitivities are not disturbed by those you deem unworthy of media attention. And to Rusty – puhlease. Did you really think that insane prosecutor (who has a history of trying people in weird devil worshipping sex plots) is RIGHT?

marty October 3, 2011 (2:38 pm)

Amanda has a wonderful family! It’s great to see the support she has been given throughout this ordeal. Now life can return to normal.

John Q Lincoln October 3, 2011 (2:41 pm)

Yeah Amanda! Reading some negative comments on Seattle Times (and here as well, can you believe it). Fact is, we don’t know what happened that night. However, the Italian Courts didn’t have proof of jack-sh** and the prosecutor’s name-calling and fabrications were immoral. Welcome home.

funkietoo October 3, 2011 (2:43 pm)

To Amanda and her family: So glad you are all back together. Be safe, happy and come home soon (after, perhaps, a well deserved, family vacation).

To Raffelle and his family: Ditto, Kiddo.

To Meredith’s Family: My heart is with you. To lose your daughter, sister, niece, friend…is beyond painful. Hopefully, someday, you can find peace and acceptance that [only] Rudy was responsible.

jissy October 3, 2011 (3:08 pm)

Diane — think I saw the start of it this morning, 2 news trucks w/cameras parked in front of a house in Arbor Heights around 9 a.m.

Beth October 3, 2011 (3:10 pm)

So happy for her and Raffaele! The truth shall set you free. We’re keeping the light on for you Amanda!
Travel safe.

Peace for you Meredith. We haven’t forgotten about you. Your villain will suffer his days in prison.

2 Much Whine October 3, 2011 (3:13 pm)

I’m with L on this one. Why are so many people that were NOT THERE so quick to believe she did it when in reality the evidence was also NOT THERE. Amanda didn’t ask for this nightmare to happen. Because her story was splashed all over the media we all feel like we know her. We don’t. If it wasn’t for this horrific tragedy she probably would have returned home, finished college and started a job by now. She has a long ways to go to recover from this and if she takes advantage of the situation (with taste and reason) I hope she does. It’s going to take a long time for the media to leave her alone. I hope she can find some peace.

bwilson October 3, 2011 (3:19 pm)

The Knox family conducted themselves with unbelievable dignity and strength throughout the entire nightmare. Let’s welcome them back with all the compassion and privacy that they will need. The international media will descend upon West Seattle soon, let’s all help to protect this family.

add October 3, 2011 (3:29 pm)

I wish the media covered Rudy’s “fast track” trial more thoroughly. I think his sentence is way too light and don’t understand why so little attention to his involvement. I think he murdered Meredith. May she rest in peace…

I’m happy for Amanda and Raffelle.

If I see Amanda around West Seattle I will say WELCOME HOME!!

dsa October 3, 2011 (3:30 pm)

Welcome home Amanda

Kayleigh October 3, 2011 (3:33 pm)

L, you don’t know if she was innocent or guilty. You have an opinion, like everyone else. Not everyone agrees that she was a victim.
.
The case has gotten way too much media attention, as many cases do that feature young attractive white American women in trouble (of which I am generally considered one, so don’t try the jealousy accusation. Well, except for the in trouble part, lol.)

TJAW October 3, 2011 (3:44 pm)

Rusty Smith. I didn’t know that they allowed inmates to use computers, because I certainly hope YOU DO NOT live in West Seattle.

A October 3, 2011 (3:56 pm)

I agree with those that say stay away! We don’t need Amanda Knox back in West Seattle!

Darkseid October 3, 2011 (3:58 pm)

West Seattle / Blog group-think is in full force. Dare offer a differing opinion and you will be admonished by the self-righteous.

The Knox family was cozy with the media from day one. They are not victims.

CB October 3, 2011 (4:09 pm)

I hope she gets out of Italy very quickly

WSB October 3, 2011 (4:14 pm)

I have seen several reports that she is leaving tomorrow. Haven’t seen a good solid attribution yet though, but when we do, we’ll add that to the running details …

Speedy October 3, 2011 (4:09 pm)

Declared Innocent?

“The jury had two options to acquit: determining there wasn’t enough evidence to uphold the conviction or that the pair simply didn’t commit the crime. The jury determined the latter, clearing Knox and Sollecito completely.”

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/44752948/ns/world_news-europe/

Sybil October 3, 2011 (4:11 pm)

I am glad to read about so much support for Amanda. Thank God she is finally free. Hopefully she runs out of Italy as fast as she can!

LincolnPark October 3, 2011 (4:16 pm)

Good point, Kayleigh. In fact, nobody commenting on this thread knows if she was innocent or guilty. Just opinions… too often stated as fact.
.
As far as the media circus is concerned… I’m afraid we haven’t seen anything yet. Fair to assume the family accumulated significant debt to get to this point. Also fair to assume they will be presented with numerous opportunities to cash in on their story… ‘exclusive’ interviews, a book (and accompanying promotional tour), a movie, etc. This story won’t go away for a long time.
.
I can’t imagine the pain it would cause the Kercher family to be subject to someone capitalizing on their daughter’s murder. I hope the Knox family chooses wisely.

hammondbacon October 3, 2011 (4:17 pm)

Finally, justice for Amanda Knox. An Italian appeals court of 8 jury members and 2 judges have reversed a lower court Italian ruling calling for a nearly life sentence. I’ve been following and praying for this local girl ever since I saw the strained look on her father’s face in a West Seattle grocery store 3 1/2 years ago. The Italian press turned her into a demon; the chief prosecuter was ego-boosting himself and his image amongst the Italian public. And the forensic procedures were ludicrous. The whole thing was a charade gone bad for Amanda. I thought she would have been given a better trial had this horrific incident occurred in a third world country. How could this have happened in a supposed modern nation with established rules of law? I am most happy for her family, her friends and most of all, for Amanda herself. No one … and I mean no one … should have to go through what she has experienced. God bless the appeal court jurors and the 2 judges. Justice at last!

NotMe October 3, 2011 (4:18 pm)

I am so glad this family lives in Arbor Heights – on the other side of West Seattle from The Junction, Admiral and Alki. At least when the press does swarm that area, it won’t affect me.
.
One thought for all of you that assume she is 100% innocent – do you really think that trial would have even happened if there wasn’t enough evidence at the time? (Before most of it was destroyed)? There is no way with all of that attention going on at the time this would have gone so far. Maybe folks should read about the hours of the morning after…

m October 3, 2011 (4:21 pm)

NotMe- FYI, there are media trucks in the Junction.

WSB October 3, 2011 (4:34 pm)

M, I was going to say, I’m sure they’re dotted all over the place. The Junction would be the “here in her home neighborhood” man-on-street reaction. Alki would be if they needed a scenic backdrop. Also, the microwave path out of Arbor Heights, IIRC from way back when, isn’t as good as from elsewhere. Plus, some crews can go anywhere via IP. So … it’s not only Arbor Heights where you might be bumping into sat or microwave trucks for a few days … (added) But might be a temporary boon for local businesses, particularly restaurants!

Alki Resident October 3, 2011 (4:25 pm)

Rusty Smith-Amanda was born and raised in West Seattle.It is YOU that’s not welcome in West Seattle.Troll some other site.

Lisa October 3, 2011 (4:26 pm)

WS commuter – Obviously I can only speak for myself, but if one of my family members was murdered and the only person convicted for it was serving a paltry 16 years? I do not consider that real justice.

Kristina October 3, 2011 (4:27 pm)

What joy for Amanda’s family! Welcome home, Amanda.

NicePerson October 3, 2011 (4:40 pm)

The family has been so devestated by this financially — I hope they are spending a few minutes to determine how they can recover some of their finances from interviews and others. I am very sorry for Meridith’s family, but the Knox and Sollecito families will also never be the same from this. Only 4 people know what happened, and one is no longer living. Amanda – time to heal and show the world what type of person you are. I think the Italian justice system did its job.

CP October 3, 2011 (4:47 pm)

Bless all of the families involed in this nightmare. I hope Merediths family finds some measure of peace when this all calms down. Anyone who is interested in this case should take the time to read The Monster of Florence. Mr. Mignini is one of the monsters in this case surely. While I am very sad for Meredith’s family the man who killed her Mr Guede is behind bars but not for long enough. Perhaps real justice will come when Mr. Mignini joins him there. It will be interesting to watch in the coming year how the Italians handle him…now that his shrill hysterical witch hunt directed at Amanda has backfired on him they must ask themselves who will he accuse of what next..
Have you no decency Mr. Mignini?

B October 3, 2011 (4:52 pm)

I do not know if she is guilty or innocent. I would like to hope she is innocent. If I see her around West Seattle I will welcome her and wish her good luck. The family has been through a lot, but let’s not forget Meredith’s family.

Jill October 3, 2011 (4:57 pm)

So happy for Amanda and the family. What a blessing for her to come home again.

clark5080 October 3, 2011 (5:08 pm)

I am thinking of turning the tables on all the paparazzi and media and gwakers that will descend on our immediate neighborhood by taking pictures of them and posting them on a web site until they leave this family alone

Don October 3, 2011 (5:27 pm)

Amanda will be coming back home with us once again and forever!
The day will be 10/4.
It’s over and out Amanda, and the world has heard loud and clear in what has been overdue true justice.
Plenty of lush green grass she so desires awaits Amanda!

Janleahy October 3, 2011 (5:33 pm)

Congratulations Amanda and welcome home!

Mary Ellen October 3, 2011 (5:37 pm)

So happy for her family. Welcome home Amanda!

Lynn October 3, 2011 (5:38 pm)

I am so relieved that shes free. Just was walking around my neighborhood in Arbor Heights and had a person from Reuters news roll down her window and sak for comments :)

clark5080 October 3, 2011 (6:57 pm)

Lynn that is just the beginning as I seriously doubt they will give her or the family any privacy

RJB October 3, 2011 (7:14 pm)

Welcome home Amanda!! Congrats to the Knox and all of Amanda’s families!! Have been following this story for years and my heart, hopes and prayers have been with you all. West Seattle is very proud of you…stop by The Bridge and we will buy you your beverage of choice. So happy for you, so happy. Here is to the rest of your life…!!

onceachef October 3, 2011 (8:02 pm)

“Interesting. I think she’s guilty of something” (a quote by “A”)….really A?…what is the “something”? It’s an idiotic statement – you have nothing to verify what the “something” is so you just had to say it anyway. She’s not guilty of anything – it was finally proven in a court of law (if you can call the Italian justice system that!). I lived in Florence back in the 70’s when Magnini was trying to prosecute another “satanic” murderer (read Monster of Florence for more info)…he’s as flamboyant and unstable as they come…all for the glory. Amanda smoked pot (guilty!) and had premarital sex (both taboos in the very Catholic Italy) but that’s it…she’s not a killer. I’m happy for her and her family…Italy needs to take a good look at their judicial system and stop being so….Italian! By the way…this is not intended to mock Meredith Kurcher’s death…the family needs peace as to what happened. I think they got it right with Rudy Guede.

Dunno October 3, 2011 (8:03 pm)

The Italian justice system has spoken. Welcome home to West Seattle Amanda! I too feel bad for the Kercher family and the loss they’ve suffered. Thank God for them the murderer is still behind bars. Now is the time for those of us that do care about the Knox family to give them all the support we can. Do I know what went down that night, heck no, but those of you quick to judge don’t either. Now I hope the Knox family is allowed to heal mentally and finacially. I just hope to help in some way in the near future.

smarkle October 3, 2011 (8:25 pm)

I’ve been quietly rooting for you Amanda. I wish you the best as you leave Italy and hope that you can find peace as you return home to your friends and family. I will continue to root for you!

anonymous October 3, 2011 (9:32 pm)

@ rusty smith: who made you the spokesman for West Seattle? Speak for yourself…don’t assume it is appropriate to speak for the greater West Seattle neighborhood.

@ not me: really, really notme. Are you really that focused on merely yourself? Yes, there will be media and perhaps it might occur somewhere in your part of the neighborhood. It’s going to happen…get over yourself and deal with it.

Best wishes for to the Knox family for recovering emotionally and financially from what they’ve been through. And our thoughts go out to the Kercher family…may you find peace and obtain closure on your loss.

Cait October 3, 2011 (9:40 pm)

OnceAChef – it’s not an idiotic statement; there are plenty of people who feel that way. Happy for the Knox family anyway, it must be a relief. Was disappointed about how little Meredith Kercher’s name was mentioned today, you could tell her family is still in agony.

WS Mom October 3, 2011 (10:17 pm)

Wouldn’t it be great to welcome Amanda back home to WS with a ton of flowers at the “Walking on Logs” site? What do you think?

Danny Q October 3, 2011 (11:44 pm)

I saw on the news that Easy Street Records had their Marquee in dedication to Amanda. I’m curious to know if upon her arrival tomorrow at Seatac if there will be any supporters lined up with signs or any planned events? Please post information. I figure it’s not worth discussing who anyone feels is wrong or right, because after 4 years if a single country has failed to do so and countless well educated American, Italian and many other Lawyers have failed to do so, how can we officially decide? I support her family and I feel justice was cleansed today.

Dill October 4, 2011 (12:35 am)

Most interesting thing to come out of all of this is how Americans think their law is the only law… Knox was a foreigner in Italy and that was the end of that. She was lucky the judge and jury reversed the decision. It could have ended up much different.

Reminds me of those two who trespassed in Iraq, or that journalist who violated law in N. Korea. I always wondered why the U.S. would get involved in seemingly cut-and-dry cases like that…

If I were to go and waltz into some foreign country and decide I could do whatever the hell I wanted, I seriously doubt the U.S. would come to my aid. Yet, if I “inadvertently stumble into Iraq” it becomes an international crisis…

Ignorance of the law is no defense.

WS Suzanne October 4, 2011 (1:02 am)

WS Mom — I think flowers would be a fantastic way to welcome her and her family back home. Maybe WS grocers and florists would be willing to donate some of their flowers? If not, is there a fund we can donate to in order to help pay for flowers?

Also, signs on the pedestrian overpass over the WS Bridge would be GREAT!

Seaview October 4, 2011 (2:01 am)

Welcome home, Amanda. I hope you give yourself time as you need it to heal from the trauma of the last four years.

zazzak October 4, 2011 (4:01 am)

if amanda had been black or Hispanic probably the American media they would be disinterested some story. You have a beautiful courage to speak of judicial system, when you live in a country in which there has been the case Or.J. Simpson and you still kill the people as in Europe the veterinarians they suppress the dogs that suffer.
Barbaric and uncivil.

The Shadow October 4, 2011 (4:18 am)

Before you go too overboard with the splashy homecoming welcome, awarding of the Key to the City (at least the Key to West Seattle), putting the process in motion for the canonization of your Saint Amanda, etc., it would be instructive to take a moment and remember the words of local commentator John Carlson. He’s refused to jump on the bandwagon, instead quietly pointing out there are a lot of elements to this case that should make one pause and wonder:
(1) Do remember the number of times AK changed her story: first she was with her boyfriend, then she was in the apartment listening to her roommate being murdered, and so on.
(2) Don’t forget she fingered an innocent man (the nightclub owner). Team Amanda has laboured long and hard to paint their girl as a naive naif, a babe in the Italian judicial wilderness. Ask yourself, if you were a naive innocent, a ‘good girl’ who knew you didn’t do it, why would you concoct stories, and throw an innocent man ‘under the bus’?

But the result is what it is. Bizarre, even suspicious behaviour in itself is not, and should never be, cause to condemn someone. But all the same, I would counsel AK’s hyperventilating supporters to chill for a moment, stand back, and not sit quite so comfortably on their bandwagon.

I have a feeling this story has not seen it’s final act. Not yet.

The Shadow knows….

NicePerson October 4, 2011 (5:09 am)

Amanda should be home this evening. I look forward to placing my flowers at the rolling log statues to welcome her back to a kind, respectful, and courteous West Seattle.

Jeff October 4, 2011 (7:10 am)

An awful lot of people seem pretty heavily emotionally invested in the well-being of someone who must be a perfect stranger to them; it’s pretty weird. I’m sure the family is very happy.

amused October 4, 2011 (7:44 am)

She is not the innocent that everybody wants her to be. The media has made a cult hero of her. I will find people of better character to admire.

Aurelio Zen October 4, 2011 (8:03 am)

Not to harsh anyone’s buzz, but I note that the prosecution has the option to appeal this appeal to the Italian Supreme Court, which they have indicated they’ll do, pending review of the written report of the Court’s decision, due in 90 days. Remember, Italian law has no such thing as ‘Double Jeopardy’.

What will happen if the appeal is overturned, and the Italian Government requests that Miss Knox be extradited back to Italy? Given the precedent that it would set, don’t bet the mortgage on the US Government refusing the request.

Like The Shadow said, this may not be over.

A October 4, 2011 (8:05 am)

Absolutely no signs from the bridge. They’re not allowed anymore, remember?? If signs go up they’ll come right down.

Jiggers October 4, 2011 (8:20 am)

You can murder someone and be welcome back by the community with open arms. Only in West Seattle..lordy! So what happened to her boyfriend and other parties involved? Is he in jail doing hardtime and not her. Poor guy. If you’re a male, you’re screwed. No sympathy regardless! And those of you who don’t even know them and want to cheeer and buy a bunch of expensive flowers for her. Go find life.

Kayleigh October 4, 2011 (8:33 am)

Thanks, Jeff. I thought I was the only one who thought the hysteria and tears and cheering were weird.

Elizabeth October 4, 2011 (8:51 am)

“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” Welcome Home Amanda!!!

TeeTaw October 4, 2011 (8:51 am)

What really sickens me is the money she will make off of this incredible tragedy.

me on 28th Ave SW October 4, 2011 (8:52 am)

I would expect that none of us can imagine what this situation has been like unless any of us has had our child locked away in a foreign country for four years. I have lost family members suddenly and violently, but I cannot imagine what the Knox family has been through. This family has paid dearly.
..
I would encourage any of you wondering about justice in Italy to read the book “Monster of Venice”; it is very interesting and after reading it I can understand how this could have happened to Amanda. The media is always looking for the next big terrible thing, and they got to spin YEARS of it from speculation and press leaks over this case.

Cclarue October 4, 2011 (9:29 am)

I am going to say again as a mother I am so happy for her family. I can not imagine the hell they have been through. To have your child locked up in a foreign prison and not be able to help her would be beyond devastating. She was portrayed guilty not proven guilty. There is a big difference in those two things. Was changing her story good ? No but none of you know what you would have done or said in her situation. We are all good at armchair quarterbacking but we still haven’t walked ten steps in her shoes much less a mile. And she just spent 4 years in prison and was never proven guilty. That is awful.

JTK October 4, 2011 (9:31 am)

Sounds like they did a pretty shotty job with the evidence…. I guess anything could have happened…. it’s always he said – she said… only 3 or 4 people know exactly what happened that night…. and the rest is up to her conscience…. are we letting a murder run free?… or no?…. I will always have SOME doubt!…

NotMe October 4, 2011 (10:13 am)

That’s right… I am glad this doesn’t affect me. I don’t give two poops that she lives anywhere near here. She means nothing to me, and I am not witnessing some sort of miracle that she is free. I can’t believe – or understand – putting flowers and teddy bears and stupid sentimental signs all down the streets or changing signs on what I thought was a cool record store – is all about. What is going on here???!!!
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All of you that are so smitten with Foxy will find out sooner or later she can’t actually walk on water. She is going to freak out every time one of you walk up to her and tell her how great she is and pretend that you know her oh-so-well… Sooner or later, you will learn how your “good intentions” are not actually welcome. You are scaring me a little and you are going to scare her a whole lot more.

WS commuter October 4, 2011 (10:18 am)

Shadow … a little truth would help illuminate your dark misunderstanding – but if you’re relying on John Carlson for your information, you’re apt to remain in the shadows …

Try reading a little bit about what actually happened with her supposed “confession” and the completely false statement that she “wrongfully accused” the nightclub owner – in fact, she did not make that statement. It has simply been wildly mis-reported by many in the media (Carlson being a good example). Find out what she really said.

There was no physical evidence linking her/Sollecito to a very bloody crime scene. None. Nada. Please explain this if you still have suspicions …

Darkseid October 4, 2011 (10:19 am)

Right on, NotMe! All this hysteria and gushing over her is very disturbing.

Neighbor October 4, 2011 (10:26 am)

It’s sad to see so many have such a stinging hatred and insistence upon Knox’s guilt when it’s obvious from their comments that they know very little about the actual facts of the case. It’s like being told that the sky is blue yet insisting that it’s purple. This is rampant in American society, we’ve stopped believing in science. It was the science of the case that set Knox free, science is factual, it doesn’t care what your gut or what your fantasy dream world is. Stop being willfully ignorant just because it fits your opinion, it only makes you look stupid.
This is a human rights case at it’s core. A woman was wrongfully imprisoned for a crime that she didn’t commit. We should all be celebrating the fact that an innocent person is free.

The Shadow October 4, 2011 (10:41 am)

My dear WS commuter. I might ask what YOU’VE been reading. While the Appeals Court overturned the murder conviction, they found Miss Knox guilty of slandering Diya Lumumba. She was sentenced to three years, and credited for time served. She is also required to pay Mr. Lumumba’s legal costs, and may yet be liable for damages he sustained.

The Shadow knows…..

Cait October 4, 2011 (10:46 am)

I think it’s possible the truth lies somewhere in between. This case was frought with so much corruption that we’ll never know what happened. It doesn’t change the fact that Meredith Kercher is dead but there are people who are cheering for Amanda Knox who don’t even know her name. All the celebration is still tainted by the fact that this girl is famous because a girl is dead. The over-jubilation, in that sense, is grotesque. Did no one hear her sister’s speech yesterday? Leave them alone to heal. Even overwhelming support can make it hard to adjust when you’re trying to deal with as much stress as she will be under. It will not aide her in gracefully putting this behind her which is what should be done seeing that the Kercher family is still clearly in agony. The details of her inncoent/guilt and the reception she gets when she’s home need to be tempered by the fact that this is still, at its heart, a very gruesome and unfair story for multiple parties.

Cait October 4, 2011 (10:49 am)

This is not to say that her family shouldn’t be celebrating to their hearts content. Who could blame them? But all of these people who don’t know her or “know a person who knows a person” are doing more harm than good as far as I’m concerned when it comes to her public image which either way she deserves a chance at cleaning up.

Steph in WS October 4, 2011 (11:52 am)

@The Shadow.
1)Amanda told the story of hearing screams because they asked her ‘what would have happened if you were home?’ and because of broken Italian and being coerced, she gave that account. That part is all over the news. Remember, coercion happens here all the time with the wrong people being accused.
2)As for accusing someone else, she was still guilty of that and maybe she suggested things and they took that as her accusing. We don’t know.

Facts: there was NO evidence of her in that room or on the victim. NONE.

More of the truth will come out but not sure it will be the facts you want to hear.

Leo October 4, 2011 (12:17 pm)

This case reminds me of the Louise Woodward case. She was the young English woman convicted of the death of baby Matthew Eappen in Massachusetts. Her countrymen in England defended her with unwavering zeal, accusing the American justice system of being corrupt. Her conviction was overturned, too, and she returned to England with throngs of loving devotees blathering about her innocence. Personally, I think Louise was guilty; I’m not sure Amanda is completely innocent, because she DID try to implicate someone else. Judge Andrew Napolitano, a TV pundit, recently asserted that Amanda’s bloodied footprint WAS found at the crime scene. You know, you can pay “experts” to say just about whatever you want during a trial. How many of you really think that Casey Anthony was innocent?

A WS mom & dad October 4, 2011 (12:37 pm)

Welcome home Amanda!!

marty October 4, 2011 (1:59 pm)

Flower reception at rolling logs statues? Amanda and family live in Arbor Heights. It is unlikely that they will be returning from the airport via the West Seattle Freeway. The 128th exit off of 509 is WAY shorter and the likely route of choice. Just saying…

NotMe October 4, 2011 (2:30 pm)

Steph in WS, that is not what happened. She changed her story once she was lawyered up. It had nothing to do with her ability to speak or understand Italian. I am sure you, along with anyone else that wants to believe this garbage will be very happy in your world.

bzzbzz October 4, 2011 (3:27 pm)

Meredith Kercher – the victim in this story. Let’s not forget that a young woman was murdered!

Megan October 4, 2011 (3:49 pm)

Welcome home Amanda!!! I am so happy for you and your family!

Steph in WS October 4, 2011 (3:52 pm)

Sorry @NotMe but it isn’t trash and it is all over in various articles. Many people who have been accused of a crime change their story. That in itself doesn’t make them guilty. I am sure you want to believe she is guilty but the fact is there was NONE OF HER DNA IN THAT ROOM! Get over it!

JanS October 4, 2011 (4:27 pm)

@jiggers. Her “boyfriend”, Raffaele (I understand they had been seeing each other for 6 days before the murder – not exactly a mad love affair), was also acquitted. He left prison yesterday, too. So don’t be pulling that gender crap here…

CP October 4, 2011 (4:34 pm)

For anyone really interested in this case there are a couple of great articles in the Guardian UK today. The ones by Douglas Preston and Nina Burleigh are very enlightening. All of them are worth a read though.
Interesting that a legit UK paper is giving them a voice.
For everyone hanging on what Amanda “said” when she was interegated (NotME) I guess we will never really know will we? Why? Because there is no audio or video of the interegation. Am I the only one who is bothered by that? Am I going to be spoon fed what Mr Mignini and the police (who fear him and want to keep there jobs and will do what they are told) tell me Amanda said? Mr Mignini and the tabloid press have had free reign to abuse and slander both Amanda and Rafael and their families. They have created a toxic atmosphere and told series of lies that alot of people now believe it is truth. Their shoddy work and hysterical rush to judgement almost permanently ruined more lives.
In the end things will calm down and eventually the truth will come out. Really it already has:
Rudy is in jail and 2 innocent kids get to go home and re-claim their lives. The other guilty greedy parties in this mess- Mr Mignini and mean sprited journalists -Barbie Latza Nadeau will keep blowing smoke to keep everyone from noticing their part in this nightmare. If I were Meredith’s family-god bless them my anger would shift from the other innocents in this to the people who deliberately created and perpetuated the LIE.