Sen. Evers Wants Review of Law in Wake of Casey Anthony Verdict

State Sen. Greg Evers, R-Baker, likes the ideas of the presumption of innocence and the burden of proof on the state in murder trials, but now that Casey Anthony has been found not guilty of murdering her daughter, Caylee, by a jury of her peers, he wants a second look.

He wrote to Senate President Mike Haridopolos, R-Merritt Island, on Thursday, asking for workshop meetings in the Senate Criminal Justice Committee that he chairs.

Here is the letter in full:

Dear President Haridopolos:

In the days following the verdict of the Casey Anthony trial, I have received numerous e-mails from concerned citizens that Florida law was not adequate to protect the safety and welfare of our children.While I respect the judicial process and the burden of proof that exists in such cases, I join my fellow Floridians in voicing concern about any inconsistencies or inadequacies in the law that could potentially lead to future issues such as this.One of the greatest privileges afforded to us as Americans is the presumption of innocence and a trial by a jury of our peers, and while I would never have wanted to be in the shoes of those Pinellas county jurors, I do feel it is imperative that we explore this issue further and, as a body, discuss any necessary changes to Florida law.

As chairman of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice, I respectfully ask that you allow our committee to dedicate its first fall meeting to discuss any potential changes that can and should be made to our criminal and civil laws that protect our most vulnerable citizens. At your direction, I am requesting to hold subsequent workshops on the issue, as necessary, to ensure the Senate takes a thoughtful and measured approach while avoiding potential unintended consequences.

Thank you for your time and consideration in this important matter.