09-21-2016, 05:50 PM
(09-21-2016, 05:30 PM)an0n Wrote: It still confused me how one can be charged with murfer when there isn't a body in some cases
It usually happens when the victim hasn't been heard from or seen since the time she/he went missing and there's overwhelming circumstantial or physical evidence against the suspect (despite no body/remains being discovered).
I've seen LE charge people with murder in such cases when they find victim DNA and belongings on the suspect or at the suspect's residence, and/or police obtain video or witness statements that put the victim last within reach of the suspect, and/or the suspect makes self-incriminating statements; usually a combination of those type pieces of evidence which make a compelling case that the victim is dead and the suspect is responsible.
I've also seen several cases where LE/prosecutors took the death penalty off the table, lowered the charges, or something of that nature in order to get a valid confession and remains location out of the suspect. It sucks when that happens, but it's better than risking an acquittal and the victims' families usually agree to the concessions to ensure some of form of justice for their loved one and closure for themselves.