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Prosecution Gives Opening Statements in Michael Jackson Trial; Police Chief Threatens Legal Action Over Inaccurate BTK Reports; Father of Missing Florida Girl Makes Public Plea for Help
Aired February 28, 2005 - 14:59 ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
MILES O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: Checking some stories "Now in the News." Thousands celebrating in the streets of Beirut. Lebanon's Syrian-backed government stepped down abruptly a few hours ago. Protesters demanded the government's ouster and the departure of Syrian troops. The demonstrations follow the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri two weeks ago today.
The White House says President Bush is considering whether to join Europe in offering Iran economic incentives in exchange for abandoning its nuclear fuel program.
The administration has previously opposed any rewards for Iran's cooperation. But last week, European leaders urged Mr. Bush to change course, and if Iran cooperates, offer it possible membership in the World Trade Organization.
The Vatican says Pope John Paul II getting therapy to improve his breathing while hospitalized in Rome. A spokesman says the pope is in good condition, recovering from throat surgery last week. No word on when he might return to the Vatican.
From the nation's capital north to Maine, they're getting ready for another winter storm. The Appalachian states already hit hard. New York City commuters are being warned right now about heavy snow during the evening rush hour. Just moments from now, we'll bring you the full forecast. Orelon Sidney in the CNN Weather Center.
First to Florida, where the father of a missing 9-year-old girl is expected to address media momentarily. There you see the live signal.
KYRA PHILLIPS, CNN ANCHOR: Jessica Lunsford was last seen at her home just north of Tampa Wednesday evening. Her father, Mark, says that he discovered her missing the following morning.
Well, a five-day search of the area has failed to turn up any clues into the child's whereabouts. When the news conference begins, we will bring it to you live.
Meanwhile today, a prosecutor revealed to a California jury how he believes Michael Jackson abused a young boy then tried to evade justice. Up to now, much of the case against the pop superstar has been a highly guarded secret. Today we know more.
Standing by live as the long-awaited trial finally begins in earnest, CNN's Ted Rowlands.
What do you know, Ted?
TED ROWLANDS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Well, Kyra, in court Michael Jackson sat emotionless and just talked with his attorney, Tom Mesereau, as Tom Sneddon detailed the case against him to the jury.
Sneddon is still presenting his opening statement. It will be followed by Tom Mesereau's opening statement. That ongoing now.
Sneddon told the jury in great detail how Michael Jackson came to know the victim in this case and the victim's family. And he went into great detail about the alleged abuse, which according to Sneddon, took place at the Neverland Ranch in Michael Jackson's master bedroom in Michael Jackson's bed.
He said that the jury should expect this victim to come and testify in great detail and to expect that the victim's brother will come and testify, as well. Sneddon said that the victim's younger brother, one year younger, witnessed on two occasions Michael Jackson sexually assaulting this victim in the master bedroom of the Neverland Ranch.
He said, as well, did Sneddon, that Michael Jackson provided alcohol and pornography to both of these youngsters during their visits, not only to Neverland but on a trip to Miami, Florida, which they took before the Martin Bashir documentary was released in the United States.
At one point, Sneddon said, "Instead of cookies and milk, you can substitute wine, vodka, and bourbon," referring to Michael Jackson and his care, I guess you could call it, with these two children, in the eyes of Tom Sneddon.
The defense will have its opportunity as soon as the prosecution has finished the opening statement. They had told the judge they needed only two hours. They've gone over that at this point. They are expected to finish up soon, and we should hear from Tom Mesereau, Jackson's attorney, later today -- Kyra.
PHILLIPS: All right. Ted Rowlands, thanks so much -- Miles.
O'BRIEN: Another justice case to follow for you. In Kansas, questioning continues for the man police say is the notorious BTK serial killer. Investigators are hoping to learn more from Dennis Rader before he faces his first court appearance tomorrow.
Let's go to CNN national correspondent, Bob Franken, live now in Wichita, Kansas -- Bob.
BOB FRANKEN, CNN CORRESPONDENT: And there will be, Miles, no specification yet on what time. Normally, these appearances occur at 3 in the afternoon, local time, but we're told it probably won't fit that profile. We're told also that he's going to be appearing via a video hook up. And this is an extremely preliminary matter. They're going to set a permanent bond, as it's currently now at $10 million. And the charges will be presented to him. Then there will be at least two more weeks before there are any further legal proceedings.
Now, one of the things that has occurred here in a case that is so unusual is that there has been a, really, flurry of news reports, some of which have been challenged by officials.
One of them an A.P. report that was cited by other news organizations, including CNN, that said that because of discussions they'd had with Rader, they could now pin three other unsolved murders on him.
The police chief today said that was absolutely not true. In fact, he was considering some sort of legal option.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
CHIEF NORMAN WILLIAMS, WICHITA, KANSAS, POLICE: I'm going to contact the D.A.'s office, and I'm going to be asking the D.A. what legal recourses do we have in regards to information that is inaccurate and inappropriate being disseminated in the community, because, as I mentioned to you before, it is important that we maintain the integrity and the professionalism of this investigation. Because if we don't do that, then the work that's been occurring over the last several months goes down the drain.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
FRANKEN: And as for the report itself, he said -- he was emphatic about the fact that there were not 13 now that were associated with Dennis Rader. He said adamantly that there were 10. And he pointed out that there is a $10 million, which he said was $1 million for each victim.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
WILLIAMS: At this present time, Dennis Rader has been connected with only 10, only 10 homicides that have spanned 31 years.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
FRANKEN: Now, note that he said at this present time. In spite of the fact that it has been an investigation, as you said, that spanned 31 years, there's still so many other questions to answer -- Miles.
O'BRIEN: All right. CNN's Bob Franken in Wichita.
Let's shift our gears and move our attention to Homosassa, Florida, where we believe that news conference we were telling you about is about to begin. That is the father of the young girl who is missing, Mark, who is approaching the microphones and should be addressing reporters very shortly. Let's listen in.
MARK LUNSFORD, FATHER OF MISSING GIRL: I hope so. I'm just real nervous. Closer.
Just I guess right now, you know, whatever questions you have and just, you know, be gentle with me. Before we get started, I just want to say that -- I just want to say that -- to Jessie that I love you and I'm trying. And any questions you have I'll be glad to answer them the best I can.
And at the end, if it's OK with you guys and everything works out and it's OK with the chaplain, just maybe five seconds, whatever, 10 seconds, just a small prayer for Jessie. I mean, if you can leave them on.
Thank you. Go ahead.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, what have you learned?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Sir, what have you heard from the authorities on the status of their investigation, where they stand right now?
M. LUNSFORD: As far as the investigation, I really don't know any more than you all do. I think maybe you guys might know a little more than me. I wished I could keep up with it, but I've got so many things that I'm trying to do to reach out there to everybody, the whole -- everybody that I can reach, and -- because I can't do it without you.
And I just wanted her to come home. I mean, she's just like your little girl. So as far as the investigation, for the best source of information for that, check with the sheriff's department.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What have they told you and the family, just to keep you informed?
M. LUNSFORD: Well, actually, I've been -- they've -- trying to remember, they told me a lot, knowing what it is. Honestly, I mean, my mind is blocked with the only thing, what I can do to get Jessie back.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, can you tell us about what kind of emotional roller coaster it has been for you? I mean, as far as this (UNINTELLIGIBLE) this weekend and the search in Homosassa the other day, where are you going?
M. LUNSFORD: It's up and down. Because the Hillsborough thing, I've been forced to have feelings for that girl. She's gone and now her family is going to find her, you know, and just stuff like that.
The video at the Circle K store, I'm telling you, man, you know, I mean it's -- it's freaky. I can't, you know -- And I can't say much more than that. It's -- I mean, it's got me rolling.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Mark, in your heart what do you think happened to her? What do you think?
M. LUNSFORD: I don't know and that's what hurts so bad. Because I don't know. UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Do you think someone has her? Do you think someone came in the house and took her?
M. LUNSFORD: As far as my own personal opinion, you know, which, you know, just me, I'm not sure. I'm not sure what I think, because like I said, my head keeps going to what can I do to find Jessie.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Do you think she left on her own?
M. LUNSFORD: No. I mean, you know...
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Do you think someone has her, Mark?
M. LUNSFORD: I do. Just me. I mean, you know, but that's just me. I'm not any different than the rest of the public. They feel the same way.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, at this point, the authorities are rapidly approaching a point where they're probably going to pull back and cut back. What you doing for her?
M. LUNSFORD: You call it pull back, OK, and, you know, they can't stay here forever. And I call it -- this is the end of phase one. Now it's time for phase two. And the sheriff's department, they're not going to quit until my daughter's back. They won't.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What's phase two going to be for your family?
M. LUNSFORD: For my family, to keep doing the same thing we're doing, staying in touch with you guys and getting as much word out there as we can and constantly reminding Jessie that we love her and just pray, baby, just pray.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Mark, tell us about Jessie's personality.
M. LUNSFORD: Got me there, didn't you? She's -- about Jessie's personality. I'm sure that a lot of you have little girls that are adorable, and they have the most wonderful personality. They can make you smile when you need it the most. And when you're hurting and you hug them, they can make you feel better. And I need my hug.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, we know that you and your father had to take a voice stress test. Can you tell us the results of that?
M. LUNSFORD: Mine was fine.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: How about your dad's?
M. LUNSFORD: They don't give me that information, you know, as far as that goes. You'd have to check with my dad or them.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Well, then let's go a little further. I know there's been some rumors floating around that you have already said it made you a little angry that your father could possibly have something to do with this. Would you like to comment on that right now? M. LUNSFORD: I think as far as that right there, there's a process of elimination and that's part of it. And that's just the bottom line. They can -- they have -- everybody has to be drilled, even if it was somebody else's child. Parents, they're coming after you first, because they've got to eliminate you first so you can get out here and do your part.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: And how is he holding up? We haven't seen him lately.
M. LUNSFORD: He's holding up very well. And he's just hanging in there. He's doing everything he can and -- to cooperate with them.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, what can you tell us about the missing doll?
M. LUNSFORD: Hold on just a second. Go ahead.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: How are you doing?
RUTH LUNSFORD, GRANDMOTHER OF MISSING GIRL: Well, I'm trying. I did go to the doctor a few minutes ago. He's like our law enforcement, and everybody, everything's going to be OK.
And what I would like to say is, Jessie, I love you and come home. And I'll say it again, someone that has her, please let her come home. Do not harm her in any way. Little children does not deserve this. And if you feel that you need some medical help, we'll pull together and we'll get it for you so that you will not be doing things like this.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Ruth, a lot of people are offering a lot of money as a reward. What do you think of that, and do you think it will help?
R. LUNSFORD: Money talks. So I would say that it's a big help.
M. LUNSFORD: This guy over here had a question.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What can you tell us about the missing doll and what was the significance of that to Jessie?
LUNSFORD: I really don't know. Like I said, that's part of the investigation. Your best source of information.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Detectives told searchers today that it was a blue -- a plush blue doll. They told searchers to be looking for blue dolls.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Is that her favorite?
R. LUNSFORD: We'd rather not answer that.
M. LUNSFORD: Well, I mean...
R. LUNSFORD: Let the authorities do that. M. LUNSFORD: Let them tell you about that. If you say they told you that. I was looking for -- I was looking for Mrs. Evans. He says the police told him about the plush doll or something.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Well, they told the searchers.
M. LUNSFORD: Is that correct? That you know of?
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I'm sorry.
M. LUNSFORD: Something about -- saying that the authorities told them about a doll that Jessie had with her.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: A doll that was missing from her room, yes.
M. LUNSFORD: And so they did describe that to her -- to them?
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Yes.
M. LUNSFORD: OK. And it was a purple dolphin.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Blue dolphin, according to the searchers.
M. LUNSFORD: Purple because Jessie's favorite -- Jessie picked it out. It was an item I won for her at the fair -- well, they say I won it. OK? It gets expensive.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: That's her favorite toy, you said?
M. LUNSFORD: Excuse me.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: You said something about the color?
M. LUNSFORD: Purple. She loves purple.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, we've heard there's been an increase in the reward. Can you tell us about that?
M. LUNSFORD: As far as I know there has. And it's an undisclosed amount. And it's brought to us by Mike Hampton. He made a pledge. He's with the -- he's with the ball team. He's in ball camp right now and his daughter goes to school with mine. Thank you, dude. Thank you. You started this. Thank you.
And also, Teamsters are pulling together, all the different local Teamster unions, and they're putting money together. But it's just an undisclosed amount right now.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: No dollar figure right now?
M. LUNSFORD: Not yet. It's overwhelming.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: On the one said, they said something about $100,000.
M. LUNSFORD: I'm not -- I'm not sure. I haven't looked at Jessie's web site. I did obtain a domain, is that right? A web site for Jessie. It's JessicaMarieLunsford.com. Any information you want about Jessie is on there.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Who's in charge of updating that? Where's the information that's on it -- who's putting that up there?
M. LUNSFORD: By word of mouth from me to my nephew, Joey Bowles (ph) in North Carolina. He's taking care of that for me. And also if I can get it right, CharlotteWebHosting.com called me and informed me that this -- if I do this, it's totally free. And they also -- they offered it to anybody with missing children. They work with them. They're in Charlotte.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: So should we run with the numbers up there, or are those just -- you're thinking those numbers are as close as you can...
M. LUNSFORD: I don't really -- Like I said, I haven't seen it. I haven't told Joey to put anything on it. So I don't know. I don't know how it works. I guess anybody could put anything on there. I mean, you could go on there and put a letter to Jessie, a prayer, anything.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, if you could say anything to the person who has her, what would it be?
M. LUNSFORD: Just please bring her home. I don't care anything about you, man. Just drop her off. I'll come get her. You know, just -- go ahead.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, I think one thing that's drawing so many people to this story and why so many people are (UNINTELLIGIBLE) is after five days there's still very little information about what happened to Jessica. Would you have thought that after five days there would have been some sort of break or resolution? I mean, what are you going through right now? She's virtually vanished.
M. LUNSFORD: She has. And it's very painful, and it's a very big roller coaster ride. And I can't do anything but think much about the other children that are missing, you know, and how long they've been gone. And I -- and I hope they get found, and I hope -- I know Jessie's coming home. She is coming home. I know she is.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, back to the stress test. You said we'd have to ask your dad about his results. Do you think there would be an opportunity for us to talk to him at any point?
M. LUNSFORD: I hope so. I mean, he's real busy. He's real busy working with the law enforcement and the sheriff's department and the detectives so I mean, I hope he can get here and give you his outlook on everything.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The gentleman to the left of Mark, sir, could you identify yourself?
M. LUNSFORD: I'm sorry. Go ahead. UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I just want to make one statement. I'm the pastor of Fort Baptist Church (ph) in Haverness (ph). I'm also serving as chaplain for the sheriff's department. And on behalf of all the chaplains and Pastor Coach (ph) from Cape Baptist (ph) where the family attends, and the entire church, just want to commend Mark for his faith and for his determination to see Jessica come home.
And I just want to thank him, the family, and I want to thank the community on behalf of the sheriff's department. We're here for the community to support them and to encourage them to keep up the good work and for the law enforcement officers are doing a fantastic job, the sheriff.
And I'm here for the family just to support them, and it's our pleasure to be able to serve them. And we know that God is in control.
M. LUNSFORD: Yes.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: God bless you.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Mark (UNINTELLIGIBLE)
M. LUNSFORD: I'm sorry. What I'm getting at. Let me get a question from the guy behind you.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, William Brown (ph) has been here since Friday. He lost a little girl, Amanda, several years ago. He's been here since Thursday also. I saw him talking to you earlier today.
M. LUNSFORD: That's right.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What kind of support was he giving you to help you pull through this? He's looking at the same situation?
M. LUNSFORD: Just what little bit he's talked to me about, just knowing how he feels helps me to prepare myself for how I have to feel, but I doubt it because Jessie's coming home.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: How is she with strangers normally?
M. LUNSFORD: I don't believe you could get her to talk to you. OK? But that's -- that's just to say Jessie, she doesn't -- she just doesn't go with strangers. She just won't talk to you. She really doesn't have anything to say to somebody she don't know.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: You talked a lot earlier about your faith and how that's helped you believe and keep going. How is that being tested, probably to the greatest degree ever in your life? Can you talk about that?
R. LUNSFORD: God will give you strength when you think you have none. That's all I can say.
M. LUNSFORD: And he'll give us more strength in numbers. We all need to pray together just as much as you can, everybody. Everybody. Yes.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, was there a key outside that house some place? Was there another way that somebody could have found a key and gotten?
M. LUNSFORD: We do keep a spare key hidden outside. As far as that being the point of interest in how they came in, I don't see how, because we still have the key.
Any more questions?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Angela was your ex-wife...
M. LUNSFORD: Angela. Angela Lunsford. She is here right now. She's -- I mean, me and her and her husband we all stay so busy with everything. They're out putting out fliers and doing everything they can.
And unfortunately I put this together. I was -- I mean, I thought they'd be back by now, but I know we're on a time limit and so unfortunately she's not able to make it here with us. She does want to see each and every one of you, and she does want to put her word out there, too.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: How hard is that going to be for you tomorrow if you wake up and all of this is gone?
M. LUNSFORD: Phase one. OK. You know what I mean? When they're gone in the morning it's not going to hurt me none, because I know they're still working on it. They've done all they can do in this area, and they've covered the -- the grounds and stuff that they thought that they needed to do.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Anything you'd like to say to all the volunteer searchers out there?
M. LUNSFORD: Thank you. I love you guys. It's -- it's -- it's been overwhelming, the people that's showing up and how far widespread this is getting to be. And I just know that the wider spread we make it, the sooner Jessie gets home.
And this will work for others, too. It will work for others. And it's all about you guys hanging out here, being patient, and wanting to talk to us. And I can't -- I can't thank everybody enough. I mean, I wouldn't even know where to start with the names or the companies, the businesses, you know, all the organizations, the bikers, the truckers.
It's -- this is wide, man, and I am so grateful to Teamsters and biker associations, trucking companies, grocery stores, convenience stores, small businesses, big businesses, all of you. Thank you.
And please, when the media's gone, please help me, OK? I need -- I need copies of the colored fliers. I mean, I've got a lot of ground to cover. And my boss, John Hannah (ph), Larry Tate, I love you guys, man. The things that they're going to do for me that I found out today, it's unbelievable. I just can't imagine. I just -- I mean, just thank you guys, so much. Everyone.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: If Jessie's near a TV, what do you want her to hear?
M. LUNSFORD: I love you, Jessie, and pray, baby. Just pray. You remember. Just pray. Just like Grandma and Sharon taught you to pray. And one other thing to Jessie, the song, baby, that you and Sharon, little Annie, you know that little song, just sing, baby. We'll get you home. OK?
Because I know that who's ever got Jessie, they got a heart. They got to have a heart. They got to.
Any more questions?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: (UNINTELLIGIBLE)
M. LUNSFORD: Everything you could imagine. I mean, details. I ask that God bring Jessie home, I ask God forgiveness for the little things I might have done so he'll help me now. I mean, I'm trying to think of everything I can to pray for.
Anybody else?
OK. Thank you guys so much. Are we OK with that?
OK. Thank you so much and once again please, please, even after the media's gone, just please keep trying. I need fliers, and I need them to hand it out.
Jessie -- JessicaMarieLunsford.com. You can get all the information you need about Jessie. If everybody that sees me right now, just gets that copy of that photo of Jessie and a description. And even you guys sitting here, just get one and send it to somebody you know, OK, just one. Thank you.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I don't know if anybody needs the spelling of the chaplain. I kept this, in case anyone wants it. And we do have some additional photos here of Jessie. I'm not going to let them out of my hands, because I told him that I wouldn't. But, if you guys want to shoot them.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Can you put it up on top of...
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Sure.
O'BRIEN: All right. That is the police spokesman there, the sheriff's office spokesman. And while they shift gears into getting some more of those pictures out there, we're going to shift gears ourselves.
We heard an emotional plea from Mark Lunsford. It's been now since Wednesday night 10 p.m. that Jessica Lunsford's family has seen her. She was tucked in bed in her pink nightgown and the next morning vanished. The door open, no visible sign of entry, and to this point, not a trace of Jessica Lunsford to be found.
Mike Brooks, who covers law enforcement matters for us, has been listening to this news conference. Just so people who are listening to this understand what's going on, this whole voice stress test which Mark Lunsford and his father have been subjected to, now, first of all how does that differ from a polygraph?
MIKE BROOKS, CNN LAW ENFORCEMENT ANALYST: It's a little bit different. Whenever someone is under stress there are distinct changes in their voice. So they'll ask them some baseline questions where they will not -- they would know that they were lying, not telling the truth. And maybe some tough -- some fairly tough questions.
It's not as proven, if you will, with investigators as a polygraph is. In fact, some people say that they don't think that this is very reliable, but one of the reasons is because you can get certified in a short amount of time.
But some departments do believe in it. Now, you know, whether or not it's good or not as good as a polygraph, that remains to be seen, because it's still an investigative tool.
But when asked earlier today the spokesperson for the Citrus County Sheriff's Office, she said that they both the grandfather and father had taken this test. And I asked her what results were. She said that they weren't going to say, which I thought was a little unusual. If they were clear, just go ahead and say that they don't have any involvement.
Then, Mark Lunsford was asked by -- just moments ago whether or not he and his father taken it. He said they had and then he said, quote, "Mine was fine." They asked about the -- his father's and he said, "Well, you have to ask him."
I just find that unusual that he would not know whether or not his father was totally clear.
And there was some question early on whether or not there was some rumors going around that the grandfather may have had some involvement. But the sheriff's office said that they didn't believe he did.
So again, you know, there's still a lot of questions remain unanswered. We did find out, though, Miles, that this missing doll that they would not really go into when she disappeared, they said it was a purple dolphin. Apparently, he said he won it at a fair.
But you know, there's still apparently not that many leads in this case. You've got Citrus County Sheriff's Office, the FBI and Florida Department of Law Enforcement working on the case.
O'BRIEN: All right. Let's go back just briefly. If the voice stress test is considered not as reliable, why not just do the full polygraph?
BROOKS: That's a good question, and I contacted the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to ask them who actually administered. And they were going to get back to me, but they have not as of yet. And I would be anxious to see if it was done by the sheriff's office or done by FDLE or who it was done by.
But you know, some investigators believe it is good. And I was talking to one polygraph examiner, again it's -- one discipline doesn't think it's as good as the other. So -- but it is still, and we've got to stress that, it's still a tool. Because we know that polygraphs are not admissible in court either.
O'BRIEN: All right. Mike Brooks, thanks for helping us decipher all of that. We're watching this case, obviously, very closely. Thank you.
BROOKS: Thanks, Miles.
O'BRIEN: Appreciate it.
That wraps up this Monday edition of LIVE FROM.
PHILLIPS: Sure. Does. "JUDY WOODRUFF'S INSIDE POLITICS" is straight ahead right after a break. We'll see you tomorrow.
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Aired February 28, 2005 - 14:59 ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
MILES O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: Checking some stories "Now in the News." Thousands celebrating in the streets of Beirut. Lebanon's Syrian-backed government stepped down abruptly a few hours ago. Protesters demanded the government's ouster and the departure of Syrian troops. The demonstrations follow the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri two weeks ago today.
The White House says President Bush is considering whether to join Europe in offering Iran economic incentives in exchange for abandoning its nuclear fuel program.
The administration has previously opposed any rewards for Iran's cooperation. But last week, European leaders urged Mr. Bush to change course, and if Iran cooperates, offer it possible membership in the World Trade Organization.
The Vatican says Pope John Paul II getting therapy to improve his breathing while hospitalized in Rome. A spokesman says the pope is in good condition, recovering from throat surgery last week. No word on when he might return to the Vatican.
From the nation's capital north to Maine, they're getting ready for another winter storm. The Appalachian states already hit hard. New York City commuters are being warned right now about heavy snow during the evening rush hour. Just moments from now, we'll bring you the full forecast. Orelon Sidney in the CNN Weather Center.
First to Florida, where the father of a missing 9-year-old girl is expected to address media momentarily. There you see the live signal.
KYRA PHILLIPS, CNN ANCHOR: Jessica Lunsford was last seen at her home just north of Tampa Wednesday evening. Her father, Mark, says that he discovered her missing the following morning.
Well, a five-day search of the area has failed to turn up any clues into the child's whereabouts. When the news conference begins, we will bring it to you live.
Meanwhile today, a prosecutor revealed to a California jury how he believes Michael Jackson abused a young boy then tried to evade justice. Up to now, much of the case against the pop superstar has been a highly guarded secret. Today we know more.
Standing by live as the long-awaited trial finally begins in earnest, CNN's Ted Rowlands.
What do you know, Ted?
TED ROWLANDS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Well, Kyra, in court Michael Jackson sat emotionless and just talked with his attorney, Tom Mesereau, as Tom Sneddon detailed the case against him to the jury.
Sneddon is still presenting his opening statement. It will be followed by Tom Mesereau's opening statement. That ongoing now.
Sneddon told the jury in great detail how Michael Jackson came to know the victim in this case and the victim's family. And he went into great detail about the alleged abuse, which according to Sneddon, took place at the Neverland Ranch in Michael Jackson's master bedroom in Michael Jackson's bed.
He said that the jury should expect this victim to come and testify in great detail and to expect that the victim's brother will come and testify, as well. Sneddon said that the victim's younger brother, one year younger, witnessed on two occasions Michael Jackson sexually assaulting this victim in the master bedroom of the Neverland Ranch.
He said, as well, did Sneddon, that Michael Jackson provided alcohol and pornography to both of these youngsters during their visits, not only to Neverland but on a trip to Miami, Florida, which they took before the Martin Bashir documentary was released in the United States.
At one point, Sneddon said, "Instead of cookies and milk, you can substitute wine, vodka, and bourbon," referring to Michael Jackson and his care, I guess you could call it, with these two children, in the eyes of Tom Sneddon.
The defense will have its opportunity as soon as the prosecution has finished the opening statement. They had told the judge they needed only two hours. They've gone over that at this point. They are expected to finish up soon, and we should hear from Tom Mesereau, Jackson's attorney, later today -- Kyra.
PHILLIPS: All right. Ted Rowlands, thanks so much -- Miles.
O'BRIEN: Another justice case to follow for you. In Kansas, questioning continues for the man police say is the notorious BTK serial killer. Investigators are hoping to learn more from Dennis Rader before he faces his first court appearance tomorrow.
Let's go to CNN national correspondent, Bob Franken, live now in Wichita, Kansas -- Bob.
BOB FRANKEN, CNN CORRESPONDENT: And there will be, Miles, no specification yet on what time. Normally, these appearances occur at 3 in the afternoon, local time, but we're told it probably won't fit that profile. We're told also that he's going to be appearing via a video hook up. And this is an extremely preliminary matter. They're going to set a permanent bond, as it's currently now at $10 million. And the charges will be presented to him. Then there will be at least two more weeks before there are any further legal proceedings.
Now, one of the things that has occurred here in a case that is so unusual is that there has been a, really, flurry of news reports, some of which have been challenged by officials.
One of them an A.P. report that was cited by other news organizations, including CNN, that said that because of discussions they'd had with Rader, they could now pin three other unsolved murders on him.
The police chief today said that was absolutely not true. In fact, he was considering some sort of legal option.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
CHIEF NORMAN WILLIAMS, WICHITA, KANSAS, POLICE: I'm going to contact the D.A.'s office, and I'm going to be asking the D.A. what legal recourses do we have in regards to information that is inaccurate and inappropriate being disseminated in the community, because, as I mentioned to you before, it is important that we maintain the integrity and the professionalism of this investigation. Because if we don't do that, then the work that's been occurring over the last several months goes down the drain.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
FRANKEN: And as for the report itself, he said -- he was emphatic about the fact that there were not 13 now that were associated with Dennis Rader. He said adamantly that there were 10. And he pointed out that there is a $10 million, which he said was $1 million for each victim.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
WILLIAMS: At this present time, Dennis Rader has been connected with only 10, only 10 homicides that have spanned 31 years.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
FRANKEN: Now, note that he said at this present time. In spite of the fact that it has been an investigation, as you said, that spanned 31 years, there's still so many other questions to answer -- Miles.
O'BRIEN: All right. CNN's Bob Franken in Wichita.
Let's shift our gears and move our attention to Homosassa, Florida, where we believe that news conference we were telling you about is about to begin. That is the father of the young girl who is missing, Mark, who is approaching the microphones and should be addressing reporters very shortly. Let's listen in.
MARK LUNSFORD, FATHER OF MISSING GIRL: I hope so. I'm just real nervous. Closer.
Just I guess right now, you know, whatever questions you have and just, you know, be gentle with me. Before we get started, I just want to say that -- I just want to say that -- to Jessie that I love you and I'm trying. And any questions you have I'll be glad to answer them the best I can.
And at the end, if it's OK with you guys and everything works out and it's OK with the chaplain, just maybe five seconds, whatever, 10 seconds, just a small prayer for Jessie. I mean, if you can leave them on.
Thank you. Go ahead.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, what have you learned?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Sir, what have you heard from the authorities on the status of their investigation, where they stand right now?
M. LUNSFORD: As far as the investigation, I really don't know any more than you all do. I think maybe you guys might know a little more than me. I wished I could keep up with it, but I've got so many things that I'm trying to do to reach out there to everybody, the whole -- everybody that I can reach, and -- because I can't do it without you.
And I just wanted her to come home. I mean, she's just like your little girl. So as far as the investigation, for the best source of information for that, check with the sheriff's department.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What have they told you and the family, just to keep you informed?
M. LUNSFORD: Well, actually, I've been -- they've -- trying to remember, they told me a lot, knowing what it is. Honestly, I mean, my mind is blocked with the only thing, what I can do to get Jessie back.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, can you tell us about what kind of emotional roller coaster it has been for you? I mean, as far as this (UNINTELLIGIBLE) this weekend and the search in Homosassa the other day, where are you going?
M. LUNSFORD: It's up and down. Because the Hillsborough thing, I've been forced to have feelings for that girl. She's gone and now her family is going to find her, you know, and just stuff like that.
The video at the Circle K store, I'm telling you, man, you know, I mean it's -- it's freaky. I can't, you know -- And I can't say much more than that. It's -- I mean, it's got me rolling.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Mark, in your heart what do you think happened to her? What do you think?
M. LUNSFORD: I don't know and that's what hurts so bad. Because I don't know. UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Do you think someone has her? Do you think someone came in the house and took her?
M. LUNSFORD: As far as my own personal opinion, you know, which, you know, just me, I'm not sure. I'm not sure what I think, because like I said, my head keeps going to what can I do to find Jessie.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Do you think she left on her own?
M. LUNSFORD: No. I mean, you know...
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Do you think someone has her, Mark?
M. LUNSFORD: I do. Just me. I mean, you know, but that's just me. I'm not any different than the rest of the public. They feel the same way.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, at this point, the authorities are rapidly approaching a point where they're probably going to pull back and cut back. What you doing for her?
M. LUNSFORD: You call it pull back, OK, and, you know, they can't stay here forever. And I call it -- this is the end of phase one. Now it's time for phase two. And the sheriff's department, they're not going to quit until my daughter's back. They won't.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What's phase two going to be for your family?
M. LUNSFORD: For my family, to keep doing the same thing we're doing, staying in touch with you guys and getting as much word out there as we can and constantly reminding Jessie that we love her and just pray, baby, just pray.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Mark, tell us about Jessie's personality.
M. LUNSFORD: Got me there, didn't you? She's -- about Jessie's personality. I'm sure that a lot of you have little girls that are adorable, and they have the most wonderful personality. They can make you smile when you need it the most. And when you're hurting and you hug them, they can make you feel better. And I need my hug.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, we know that you and your father had to take a voice stress test. Can you tell us the results of that?
M. LUNSFORD: Mine was fine.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: How about your dad's?
M. LUNSFORD: They don't give me that information, you know, as far as that goes. You'd have to check with my dad or them.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Well, then let's go a little further. I know there's been some rumors floating around that you have already said it made you a little angry that your father could possibly have something to do with this. Would you like to comment on that right now? M. LUNSFORD: I think as far as that right there, there's a process of elimination and that's part of it. And that's just the bottom line. They can -- they have -- everybody has to be drilled, even if it was somebody else's child. Parents, they're coming after you first, because they've got to eliminate you first so you can get out here and do your part.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: And how is he holding up? We haven't seen him lately.
M. LUNSFORD: He's holding up very well. And he's just hanging in there. He's doing everything he can and -- to cooperate with them.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, what can you tell us about the missing doll?
M. LUNSFORD: Hold on just a second. Go ahead.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: How are you doing?
RUTH LUNSFORD, GRANDMOTHER OF MISSING GIRL: Well, I'm trying. I did go to the doctor a few minutes ago. He's like our law enforcement, and everybody, everything's going to be OK.
And what I would like to say is, Jessie, I love you and come home. And I'll say it again, someone that has her, please let her come home. Do not harm her in any way. Little children does not deserve this. And if you feel that you need some medical help, we'll pull together and we'll get it for you so that you will not be doing things like this.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Ruth, a lot of people are offering a lot of money as a reward. What do you think of that, and do you think it will help?
R. LUNSFORD: Money talks. So I would say that it's a big help.
M. LUNSFORD: This guy over here had a question.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What can you tell us about the missing doll and what was the significance of that to Jessie?
LUNSFORD: I really don't know. Like I said, that's part of the investigation. Your best source of information.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Detectives told searchers today that it was a blue -- a plush blue doll. They told searchers to be looking for blue dolls.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Is that her favorite?
R. LUNSFORD: We'd rather not answer that.
M. LUNSFORD: Well, I mean...
R. LUNSFORD: Let the authorities do that. M. LUNSFORD: Let them tell you about that. If you say they told you that. I was looking for -- I was looking for Mrs. Evans. He says the police told him about the plush doll or something.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Well, they told the searchers.
M. LUNSFORD: Is that correct? That you know of?
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I'm sorry.
M. LUNSFORD: Something about -- saying that the authorities told them about a doll that Jessie had with her.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: A doll that was missing from her room, yes.
M. LUNSFORD: And so they did describe that to her -- to them?
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Yes.
M. LUNSFORD: OK. And it was a purple dolphin.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Blue dolphin, according to the searchers.
M. LUNSFORD: Purple because Jessie's favorite -- Jessie picked it out. It was an item I won for her at the fair -- well, they say I won it. OK? It gets expensive.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: That's her favorite toy, you said?
M. LUNSFORD: Excuse me.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: You said something about the color?
M. LUNSFORD: Purple. She loves purple.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, we've heard there's been an increase in the reward. Can you tell us about that?
M. LUNSFORD: As far as I know there has. And it's an undisclosed amount. And it's brought to us by Mike Hampton. He made a pledge. He's with the -- he's with the ball team. He's in ball camp right now and his daughter goes to school with mine. Thank you, dude. Thank you. You started this. Thank you.
And also, Teamsters are pulling together, all the different local Teamster unions, and they're putting money together. But it's just an undisclosed amount right now.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: No dollar figure right now?
M. LUNSFORD: Not yet. It's overwhelming.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: On the one said, they said something about $100,000.
M. LUNSFORD: I'm not -- I'm not sure. I haven't looked at Jessie's web site. I did obtain a domain, is that right? A web site for Jessie. It's JessicaMarieLunsford.com. Any information you want about Jessie is on there.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Who's in charge of updating that? Where's the information that's on it -- who's putting that up there?
M. LUNSFORD: By word of mouth from me to my nephew, Joey Bowles (ph) in North Carolina. He's taking care of that for me. And also if I can get it right, CharlotteWebHosting.com called me and informed me that this -- if I do this, it's totally free. And they also -- they offered it to anybody with missing children. They work with them. They're in Charlotte.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: So should we run with the numbers up there, or are those just -- you're thinking those numbers are as close as you can...
M. LUNSFORD: I don't really -- Like I said, I haven't seen it. I haven't told Joey to put anything on it. So I don't know. I don't know how it works. I guess anybody could put anything on there. I mean, you could go on there and put a letter to Jessie, a prayer, anything.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, if you could say anything to the person who has her, what would it be?
M. LUNSFORD: Just please bring her home. I don't care anything about you, man. Just drop her off. I'll come get her. You know, just -- go ahead.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, I think one thing that's drawing so many people to this story and why so many people are (UNINTELLIGIBLE) is after five days there's still very little information about what happened to Jessica. Would you have thought that after five days there would have been some sort of break or resolution? I mean, what are you going through right now? She's virtually vanished.
M. LUNSFORD: She has. And it's very painful, and it's a very big roller coaster ride. And I can't do anything but think much about the other children that are missing, you know, and how long they've been gone. And I -- and I hope they get found, and I hope -- I know Jessie's coming home. She is coming home. I know she is.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, back to the stress test. You said we'd have to ask your dad about his results. Do you think there would be an opportunity for us to talk to him at any point?
M. LUNSFORD: I hope so. I mean, he's real busy. He's real busy working with the law enforcement and the sheriff's department and the detectives so I mean, I hope he can get here and give you his outlook on everything.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The gentleman to the left of Mark, sir, could you identify yourself?
M. LUNSFORD: I'm sorry. Go ahead. UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I just want to make one statement. I'm the pastor of Fort Baptist Church (ph) in Haverness (ph). I'm also serving as chaplain for the sheriff's department. And on behalf of all the chaplains and Pastor Coach (ph) from Cape Baptist (ph) where the family attends, and the entire church, just want to commend Mark for his faith and for his determination to see Jessica come home.
And I just want to thank him, the family, and I want to thank the community on behalf of the sheriff's department. We're here for the community to support them and to encourage them to keep up the good work and for the law enforcement officers are doing a fantastic job, the sheriff.
And I'm here for the family just to support them, and it's our pleasure to be able to serve them. And we know that God is in control.
M. LUNSFORD: Yes.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: God bless you.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Mark (UNINTELLIGIBLE)
M. LUNSFORD: I'm sorry. What I'm getting at. Let me get a question from the guy behind you.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, William Brown (ph) has been here since Friday. He lost a little girl, Amanda, several years ago. He's been here since Thursday also. I saw him talking to you earlier today.
M. LUNSFORD: That's right.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: What kind of support was he giving you to help you pull through this? He's looking at the same situation?
M. LUNSFORD: Just what little bit he's talked to me about, just knowing how he feels helps me to prepare myself for how I have to feel, but I doubt it because Jessie's coming home.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: How is she with strangers normally?
M. LUNSFORD: I don't believe you could get her to talk to you. OK? But that's -- that's just to say Jessie, she doesn't -- she just doesn't go with strangers. She just won't talk to you. She really doesn't have anything to say to somebody she don't know.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: You talked a lot earlier about your faith and how that's helped you believe and keep going. How is that being tested, probably to the greatest degree ever in your life? Can you talk about that?
R. LUNSFORD: God will give you strength when you think you have none. That's all I can say.
M. LUNSFORD: And he'll give us more strength in numbers. We all need to pray together just as much as you can, everybody. Everybody. Yes.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mark, was there a key outside that house some place? Was there another way that somebody could have found a key and gotten?
M. LUNSFORD: We do keep a spare key hidden outside. As far as that being the point of interest in how they came in, I don't see how, because we still have the key.
Any more questions?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Angela was your ex-wife...
M. LUNSFORD: Angela. Angela Lunsford. She is here right now. She's -- I mean, me and her and her husband we all stay so busy with everything. They're out putting out fliers and doing everything they can.
And unfortunately I put this together. I was -- I mean, I thought they'd be back by now, but I know we're on a time limit and so unfortunately she's not able to make it here with us. She does want to see each and every one of you, and she does want to put her word out there, too.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: How hard is that going to be for you tomorrow if you wake up and all of this is gone?
M. LUNSFORD: Phase one. OK. You know what I mean? When they're gone in the morning it's not going to hurt me none, because I know they're still working on it. They've done all they can do in this area, and they've covered the -- the grounds and stuff that they thought that they needed to do.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Anything you'd like to say to all the volunteer searchers out there?
M. LUNSFORD: Thank you. I love you guys. It's -- it's -- it's been overwhelming, the people that's showing up and how far widespread this is getting to be. And I just know that the wider spread we make it, the sooner Jessie gets home.
And this will work for others, too. It will work for others. And it's all about you guys hanging out here, being patient, and wanting to talk to us. And I can't -- I can't thank everybody enough. I mean, I wouldn't even know where to start with the names or the companies, the businesses, you know, all the organizations, the bikers, the truckers.
It's -- this is wide, man, and I am so grateful to Teamsters and biker associations, trucking companies, grocery stores, convenience stores, small businesses, big businesses, all of you. Thank you.
And please, when the media's gone, please help me, OK? I need -- I need copies of the colored fliers. I mean, I've got a lot of ground to cover. And my boss, John Hannah (ph), Larry Tate, I love you guys, man. The things that they're going to do for me that I found out today, it's unbelievable. I just can't imagine. I just -- I mean, just thank you guys, so much. Everyone.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: If Jessie's near a TV, what do you want her to hear?
M. LUNSFORD: I love you, Jessie, and pray, baby. Just pray. You remember. Just pray. Just like Grandma and Sharon taught you to pray. And one other thing to Jessie, the song, baby, that you and Sharon, little Annie, you know that little song, just sing, baby. We'll get you home. OK?
Because I know that who's ever got Jessie, they got a heart. They got to have a heart. They got to.
Any more questions?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: (UNINTELLIGIBLE)
M. LUNSFORD: Everything you could imagine. I mean, details. I ask that God bring Jessie home, I ask God forgiveness for the little things I might have done so he'll help me now. I mean, I'm trying to think of everything I can to pray for.
Anybody else?
OK. Thank you guys so much. Are we OK with that?
OK. Thank you so much and once again please, please, even after the media's gone, just please keep trying. I need fliers, and I need them to hand it out.
Jessie -- JessicaMarieLunsford.com. You can get all the information you need about Jessie. If everybody that sees me right now, just gets that copy of that photo of Jessie and a description. And even you guys sitting here, just get one and send it to somebody you know, OK, just one. Thank you.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I don't know if anybody needs the spelling of the chaplain. I kept this, in case anyone wants it. And we do have some additional photos here of Jessie. I'm not going to let them out of my hands, because I told him that I wouldn't. But, if you guys want to shoot them.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Can you put it up on top of...
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Sure.
O'BRIEN: All right. That is the police spokesman there, the sheriff's office spokesman. And while they shift gears into getting some more of those pictures out there, we're going to shift gears ourselves.
We heard an emotional plea from Mark Lunsford. It's been now since Wednesday night 10 p.m. that Jessica Lunsford's family has seen her. She was tucked in bed in her pink nightgown and the next morning vanished. The door open, no visible sign of entry, and to this point, not a trace of Jessica Lunsford to be found.
Mike Brooks, who covers law enforcement matters for us, has been listening to this news conference. Just so people who are listening to this understand what's going on, this whole voice stress test which Mark Lunsford and his father have been subjected to, now, first of all how does that differ from a polygraph?
MIKE BROOKS, CNN LAW ENFORCEMENT ANALYST: It's a little bit different. Whenever someone is under stress there are distinct changes in their voice. So they'll ask them some baseline questions where they will not -- they would know that they were lying, not telling the truth. And maybe some tough -- some fairly tough questions.
It's not as proven, if you will, with investigators as a polygraph is. In fact, some people say that they don't think that this is very reliable, but one of the reasons is because you can get certified in a short amount of time.
But some departments do believe in it. Now, you know, whether or not it's good or not as good as a polygraph, that remains to be seen, because it's still an investigative tool.
But when asked earlier today the spokesperson for the Citrus County Sheriff's Office, she said that they both the grandfather and father had taken this test. And I asked her what results were. She said that they weren't going to say, which I thought was a little unusual. If they were clear, just go ahead and say that they don't have any involvement.
Then, Mark Lunsford was asked by -- just moments ago whether or not he and his father taken it. He said they had and then he said, quote, "Mine was fine." They asked about the -- his father's and he said, "Well, you have to ask him."
I just find that unusual that he would not know whether or not his father was totally clear.
And there was some question early on whether or not there was some rumors going around that the grandfather may have had some involvement. But the sheriff's office said that they didn't believe he did.
So again, you know, there's still a lot of questions remain unanswered. We did find out, though, Miles, that this missing doll that they would not really go into when she disappeared, they said it was a purple dolphin. Apparently, he said he won it at a fair.
But you know, there's still apparently not that many leads in this case. You've got Citrus County Sheriff's Office, the FBI and Florida Department of Law Enforcement working on the case.
O'BRIEN: All right. Let's go back just briefly. If the voice stress test is considered not as reliable, why not just do the full polygraph?
BROOKS: That's a good question, and I contacted the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to ask them who actually administered. And they were going to get back to me, but they have not as of yet. And I would be anxious to see if it was done by the sheriff's office or done by FDLE or who it was done by.
But you know, some investigators believe it is good. And I was talking to one polygraph examiner, again it's -- one discipline doesn't think it's as good as the other. So -- but it is still, and we've got to stress that, it's still a tool. Because we know that polygraphs are not admissible in court either.
O'BRIEN: All right. Mike Brooks, thanks for helping us decipher all of that. We're watching this case, obviously, very closely. Thank you.
BROOKS: Thanks, Miles.
O'BRIEN: Appreciate it.
That wraps up this Monday edition of LIVE FROM.
PHILLIPS: Sure. Does. "JUDY WOODRUFF'S INSIDE POLITICS" is straight ahead right after a break. We'll see you tomorrow.
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