[ml/nj]

One of the problems here is that it shouldn't really be their choice. It is supposed to be the People vs. whomever. The Smarts are witnesses. It's too bad that that's the way it is, but letting it go just encourages others to think they can get away with similar crimes against other children.

ML/NJ

[lady lawyer]

It IS the prosecutor's choice. But if the kidnapping charges are enough to put the two of them away for life, then what is to be gained by forcing Elizabeth to describe every detail of what they did to her in public. The prosecutor might choose to honor the family's wishes.

[skr]

I'll feel better about their decision if they don't sell book and movie rights to anyone.

[ewing]

But if Elizabeth deosn't testify, it would be hard to prosecute.