So when a person like Zimmerman refuses to take the stand in his own defense [View all]

[Generic Other]

won't most jury members think he's guilty? Why would an innocent man refuse to take the stand? I don't understand why Zimmerman wouldn't feel morally obligated to defend his good name and the reputation of neighborhood block watch, etc.

I realize he might do more damage to his own case if he testifies, but doesn't keeping him off the stand mean risking that a jury will read that as an admission of guilt? I certainly do and would.

I think the weird cop/consultant who spoke of Zimmerman's total lack of prowess really did describe the cowardly man who I have watched in court these past days. This quivering mass of jello has made his friends and relatives testify for him, has worn $3000 worth of suits his friend bought him to come to court to sit and look drugged. He has maligned and slandered a dead teenager he killed. He pulled the trigger. He owes the state, the citizens and the Martin family an explanation for his behavior.

A coward with a gun in his pants. A coward in the courtroom. And one without shame. Bragging everywhere about his actions. But mute in court. No matter what the outcome of this trial, George Zimmerman does not win in the court of public opinion. Any dreams he had of working in law enforcement are over. He is a worthless man whose actions have been exposed to everyone. His claims of self defense rest on the picture of a fat, incompetent threat to public safety who should not have been roaming the neighborhood armed. A man who may get away with murder.

I predict if he does, he will look over his shoulder and jump at shadows the rest of his miserable life.

Am I right that juries usually don't think much of defendants refusing to take the stand on their own behalf? I know you have the right to do this, but it does not make you look innocent, IMO.

on edit: typo