Rape cases are difficult but I have some real problems with rape shield laws. I have seen both sides of the issue. Women who need the protection of the law - and women who lie about being raped for either money or to try to cover up infedelity. Most people are aware of real rapes and feel sorry for the women victims - as I do. But I have seen that the other side is extremely common.
Having said that - if I were on the jury and I were presented with the fact that the woman had sex with another man between the time she was raped and when she was examined by the police - I don't see how I could decide to convict.
Not only would I have a problem with her cerdibility - but how do you determine which sex act caused what results? Which sex act resulted in what?
The standard of the law is "beyond a reasonable doubt" which means that even if they convinced me that he probably did it - probably isn't good enough. And with the woman having sex with another man after the rape and before the medical exam - that's reasonable doubt. There was no case there - and it was properly dismissed.
Personally - I think the girl is lying. And I think she's in it for a buck. But that's just my opinion.
A little tip for those who are raped - go to the police first before having sex with someone else.
My 2 cents ....
I agree with you 100%. Oh by the way, its Kobe Bryant :):):)
Posted by: URockMarc at September 8, 2004 10:39 PMHere's a little added bonus.
Everyone was really quick to protect the identity of the accuser: Kate Favor. But, they were always quick to let the public know the identity of the accused: Kobe Bryant.
I don't understand how this is just, because even if this girl was lying, kobe's public reputation is tarnished.
In my opinion, the identity of the parties envolved should be concealed until a verdict is released. At which point if the accused is aquited, the identity of the accuser is released.
I don't think kobe should have settled out of court, because there was enough evidence that pointed out the fact that she was not raped. Now because he has settled out of court, his reputation is ruined.
Posted by: mike bailey at September 9, 2004 09:42 AM