The Blame Game

The Blame Game

The trial had gone on for what had seemed like an eternity. The jury was either restless, bored or asleep. Luckily, it was time for the summations.

Raymond Burrows, for the Defense, stood up and approached the jury. I roused myself to hear what he had to say.

“Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, I have a simple question for you.” He paused for a long beat, and I had to stifle a yawn.

“Who is to blame for this?”

He began to pace.

My client? I believe I have proved his innocence. Society as a whole? Perhaps. Or just tragic circumstances? That is for you to decide based on what you have heard during this trial. I believe I can leave you to it, as I know you will declare my client not guilty.”

Burrows sat down and Cal Archerson, for the Prosecution, jumped up.

“Since my worthy opponent brings it up, who should we blame?”

“I submit we can only blame the defendant. He acted alone as all the evidence I presented clearly shows.”

As he droned on, I fought to stifle my amusement at his theatrics. I decided he should be on a court drama on television.

When we were dismissed to deliberate, I decided to do what I knew I must. I had to make sure the jury was hung. Only I could end the life of this man as he had ended my sister’s.

I had sworn to my mother that I would see to it. He had to be free for me to carry out my vengeance. My plans were set. All I needed was to lull everyone into a sense of security before I sprang the trap.

Ultimately, we could not decide. A mistrial was declared. I began to prepare.