Casey Anthony Trial Update: Spectator flips off prosecutor, gets jail
(CBS/WKMG) ORLANDO, Fla. - Casey Anthony trial spectator Matthew Bartlett was found guilty of criminal contempt Thursday afternoon for flipping off prosecutor Jeff Ashton.
Pictures: Casey and Caylee Anthony, Personal Photos
The gesture apparently escaped the view of the jury but Judge Belvin Perry was not one to say "no harm no foul," emphasizing the potential damage Bartlett's behavior could have caused if he had been seen by the jury.
Perry called Bartlett's attention to a sign posted in the courtroom prohibiting spectators from making any gestures of any kind, according to CBS affiliate WKMG.
"I'm truly sorry for doing this; this is something stupid," Bartlett said.
Despite his apology, Perry sentenced him to six days in the Orange County Jail and a fine of $400 plus court costs of more than $200, the station reported.
Bartlett, 28, said he is a server at the TGI Fridays at Millennia Mall. He said he makes around $15,000 a year and has $12 in savings.
Thursday was day 32 of the Casey Anthony murder trial. Bartlett's action occurred Thursday afternoon after the defense rested its case and the state began presenting its rebuttal case.
Closing arguments are expected to be held Saturday, with the jury deliberating over the holiday weekend.
If convicted of first-degree murder in the death of her daughter, Caylee, Anthony could face the death penalty.
The Casey Anthony case was recently reported on by "48 Hours Mystery."