Jessie Davis Case: The Jury Is In Redux

After deliberating late last night, this morning the jury in the Jessie Davis Case returned its verdict against Bobby Cutts Jr.

Six men and six women determined that Cutts is guilty of two aggravated murder charges in the death of his daughter, Baby Chloe, and murder in the death of Jessie Marie Davis. Aggravated murder in Ohio is a death penalty offense. Cutts was also found guilty of aggravated burglary, two counts of gross abuse of a corpse and child endangering (for leaving little Blake, his son, alone for over twenty-four hours).

On February 25th, the jury will recommend Cutts' penalty; they have four choices: death, life without parole, life with a chance of parole after twenty-five years and life with a chance of parole after thirty years. Judge Charles E. Brown will consider the jury's recommendation in determining Cutts' sentence. A gag order is in place so neither family has spoken with the press after the verdict was announced.

Judge Brown maintained iron control throughout the trial and today was no exception. He cautioned the packed room, "If anyone so much as coughs, they will be removed." regarding the reading of the verdict. Cutts, according to reports, showed no emotion when the verdict was read.

His attorney asked for a mistrial calling the verdicts inconsistent so I'm guessing that was groundwork for an appeal and this drama will continue for a long time.

I thought it was a pretty good verdict. I got a bit tired of people saying what a good guy Cutts is. A good guy isn't unfaithful to his wife. A good guy doesn't run out and leave his 2-year old son alone. A good guy takes responsibility for his actions. A good guy doesn't even think about hitting a pregnant woman. I could go on but I think you get my drift.

I feel sorry for both families -- the stress of all this is has to be taking its toll on them. They are in my prayers.

Kay Dennison