|
| |
Response From:
Peter J. Stephens M.D.,
Forensic Pathologist, Iowa City, Iowa
[The Cedar Rapids Gazette ran a news story
from Associated Press on April 29, 2000 in which Heidi Anfinson said she did not
consider herself guilty. Dr. Stephens responded to that story. He lives in Iowa
City and practices at Weland Laboratories in Cedar Rapids. His letter to the
editor was published on the May 5 opinion page. - Kurt Rogahn, Assistant Opinion
Page Editor, The Gazette, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52406]
What is gained by imprisoning that woman?
Heidi Anfinson's interview regarding her second-degree
murder conviction (Gazette, April 29) omits some important points. This case
(involving a Des Moines woman found guilty in the drowning death of her
2-week-old son) represents a travesty of justice for whom all Iowans should be
deeply embarrassed and ashamed.
First, she was convicted on the basis of junk science: The two prosecution
experts disagreed with each other's reasons for their opinions, as well they
should. Neither of the theories offered by the prosecution witnesses is commonly
accepted in the forensic science community or adequately supported in scientific
literature. Had this trial been held in federal court, it is highly improbable
that either theory would have withstood a so-called Daubert hearing.
Second, the sentence far exceeds that in most other English-speaking
jurisdictions, many of which mandate manslaughter verdicts in cases involving
women recovering from childbirth. Third, regardless of whether or not they care
about the quality, fairness and humanity of the Iowa criminal justice system,
Iowans should be appalled at the tax dollars squandered in this matter. It will
cost well over $1 million to incarcerate Heidi Anfinson for 42 1/2 years. She is
extremely unlikely to repeat her offense and Represents no threat whatsoever to
citizens of this state. The money involved would pay about one-third of the cost
of a modern medical examiner facility or about one-tenth the cost of a new state
crime laboratory, both of which are sorely needed.
Until now, I had not thought of Iowans as vindictive or vengeful people. This
case clearly indicates that the citizens of Iowa are more interested in
vengeance than in providing adequate forensic sciences facilities. It also
indicates they are prepared to spend approximately $1.2 million to buy this
vengeance.
Editor's note: Dr. Stephens testified on Heidi's behalf at both
of her trials.
Anfinson Case
Case Studies
Mental Illness
Legal Definition
Justice Issues
Statistics Celebrities
Organizations
Contact Us!
Home
|
