Orlando, Fla. – On Friday, Casey Anthony’s brother, Lee Anthony, took the stand at his sister’s murder trial and at one point became extremely emotional, breaking down in tears.
Under direct examination by defense attorney Jose Baez, Lee testified Casey’s Pontiac Sunfire had once been his, and when purchased, there were stains in the trunk. This testimony supported that of his mother, Cindy Anthony, who testified to the same thing the day before.
In addition, Lee noted he may have caused some stains in the trunk as well.
To watch the Casey Anthony trial, click here.
Baez also brought up Casey’s pregnancy, which Lee testified remained hidden until a few days prior to Caylee’s birth. This line of questioning was likely to imply the dysfunction of the Anthony family members and the fact they held certain information close to the vest.
Such a theory supports Baez’s assertion during opening statements that Caylee died due to an accidental drowning in the backyard pool, however, Casey and George conspired to hide the tragic incident. Baez explained that Casey was used to hiding family secrets because her father and brother had molested her as a child. Thus, she was taught to lie and make up stories rather than face the truth about her childhood.
To see photos of Cindy Anthony helping Caylee enter the backyard pool, click here.
As Lee continued his testimony, he said he did not go to the hospital for his niece’s birth because he was hurt he was not told about his sister’s pregnancy.
During a sidebar, Lee breaking down with tears streaming down his face. Casey appeared to become emotional as well.
After the court taking a lunch recess, Lee returned to the stand and said he was hurt because he felt excluded by his family regarding his sister’s pregnancy.
During his testimony, he said on one occasion when he asked his mother about Casey’s pregnancy, Cindy told him, “Let it go.”
Prosecutor Jeff Ashton also questioned Lee, asking him whether a stench was emanating from the Pontiac Sunfire when the car was purchased. Lee answered there was not.
In addition, Lee testified that in preparation for Casey’s trial he was asked to meet with the prosecution team, but he refused. He noted he initially refused to meet with Baez, however, he “reached out” to the defense attorny prior to today’s testimony because he felt there was certain information Baez should be apprised of.
To watch Lee’s testimony at the Casey Anthony trial on June 24, 2011, click here.
Lee noted that this entire ordeal has been “emotionally draining and difficult” and admitted he did not accept Caylee was actually dead until recently.
To keep up to date with the Casey Anthony trial and view jury selection, court proceedings and testimony videos, click here.
To revisit Casey’s case, find links to pages and pages of evidence, including transcripts of law enforcement interviews, court documents, letters, and forensic evidence, by clicking here.
In addition, links to a multitude of videos and photos released in the case including the many men in Casey’s life, party photos, and evidentiary images can be found by clicking here.
Want to read more Crime Examiner articles? Then subscribe to receive continuous updates as articles are published. You can also follow me on Twitter and find links to all of my articles on uFollow.
