Cindy and George Anthony release statement following Casey Anthony not guilty verdict
(CBS) - Casey Anthony's parents, George and Cindy Anthony, and her brother Lee have released a statement through their attorney Mark Lippman following the not guilty verdict today on the most serious charges faced by the Florida mother:
While the family may never know what has happened to Caylee Marie Anthony, they now have closure for this chapter of their life. They will now begin the long process of rebuilding their lives.
Despite the baseless defense chosen by Casey Anthony, the family believes that the Jury made a fair decision based on the evidence presented, the testimony presented, the scientific information presented and the rules that were given to them by the Honorable Judge Perry to guide them.
The family hopes that they will be given the time by the media to reflect on this verdict and decide the best way to move forward privately.
The family also wanted the public to know that if anyone wanted to honor Caylee by leaving stuffed animals or other toys at any area near their home, that they would prefer those items be donated in Caylee's name to families in need, religious centers, or any other entity where the toys would be appreciated.
After deliberating for 10 hours, the jury in the Casey Anthony trial found the Florida mother not guilty of first-degree murder, aggravated child abuse and aggravated manslaughter. She was found guilty of four lesser charges of providing false information to a law enforcement officer. Experts say she is unlikely to face any additional jail time on those charges.
The prosecution had claimed that Anthony suffocated her daughter with duct tape. The defense said Caylee accidentally drowned.
48 Hours Mystery's special on the verdict, Casey Anthony: Judgment Day, will air tonight at 10/9 c.