If they pay her off, they will appear guilty- hard to get your reputation back in that case. On the other hand, especially if they fail to change venue, the most important thing is to keep these boys out of prison, so it could be worth it. It is far too early to tell.
I know I'm in the minority, but if I were the defense attorney I'm not certain that I would want this trial held this summer or even in the early fall. Emotions are still high, and I'm not sure if a fair jury could be had in Durham or even near Durham right now. Giving time to allow the story to fade from the media would better allow the facts to speak for themselves. In addition, these type of racially charged trials always bring up the specter of possible riots. The threat of possible riots or racial violence may sway a jury to vote in favor of the mob rather than justice. Riots are more likely to happen in warm weather (now through November).
Sounds logical.....but...no one has to know the supposed victim of the case has been paid off. All she has to do is go to Nilfag and tell him she refuses to testify, and he therefore has no case.
The agreement could be that she publicly says she is just not sure of her ID of the perps and she does not want to send an innocent man to jail. This gives the accused the appearance of innocence. Everybody walks out a winner......except Lady Justice.
In addition, these type of racially charged trials always bring up the specter of possible riots.Oh, that's right, threats of possible riots by the good citizens of Durham should trump the right to a fair and speedy trial of these boys. /sarc