As much as I'm glad to see this over, I note with some regret that only one person has actually been aquitted of the charges, while the others have had the charges dismissed.
To my simple mind there is a significant difference between a decision that beyond a reasonable doubt you are not guilty and a decision to not go forward with a trial of the facts. And, yes, I do understand the concept of "dismissal with prejudice," which unfortunately I did not read. (I know, the reportalist either is not a legal beagle or just didn't think it was that important to include, as opposed to it not being stated means it did not happen.)
I quite well understand and appreciate the utter hell that all who were charged have gone through, and truely do not wish to impose more on those who did not go to trial.
But even a directed verdict from the bench seems to provide absolute closure, while mere dismissal leaves open a question of what the final outcome might have been.
All things considered, I wonder how the careers of those involved in attempting to force this issue will be affected. And I do hope they are affected in some significant way.
stay safe.
