Memories

Today, I came across a letter that Jasmine's Prosecuting Attorney wrote to her after the trial was over.

Dear Jasmine,

Now that your criminal case is over, I wanted to write and that you for all your help.

I know that this has been very difficult for you, but we could not have done this without you. You were so very brave and strong to be able to tell about what happened to you and to stand up for yourself.

This was not your fault and please dont let this crime define you.  You are not a victim, You are a SURVIVOR!  Because of your courage, it is our hope that other kids wont go through what you did.

It is my hope that you can put this in your past and move forward and enjoy all that life can give you.

It was my pleasure working with you and good luck in everything you do.


 It made me cry, and brought back all of the memories of that horrible day in court.  The waiting, negotiating, wondering if we were going to have to get on the stand. Wondering if Jasmine was going to have to get on the stand and face her offender and that family.  The way Jasmine slid off her chair and sat under the table in the side room we were in, when the prosecutor and the detectives were going over everything with her once more, and trying to tell her how the trial was going to go.  How the prosecutor, and her advocate got down on the floor with Jasmine, and promised her that she would be safe...They would keep her safe. (in a trial like that, we couldnt be in the court room when she testified since we were witnesses, and would be taking the stand ourselves)  The horrific scream the offenders mother let out as she went charging out of the courtroom.  I dont think I will ever forget that scream.   Then getting the news that they had taken a plea bargin, and then waiting an hour and a half for them to draw up the papers and going in and listening to the change of plea from not guilty to GUILTY!!!!  I will always remember every detail about that day, and many other days associated with this.

It was a nice, thoughtful letter to Jasmine, I just wish she never had to get it.