Phoenix mom misses deadline for kids' trust fund

[branford]

97. No so fast, counsel.

If her attorney tries the "pity the poor woman" schtick, the prosecution will be able to discuss, in exquisite, lengthy and unflattering detail, where and how she spent the money and how she failed to provide for her children, as a means of impeachment. I very much doubt that a jury will look kindly on a woman who buys designed jeans and $6000 worth of studio time, instead of providing for her own children, particularly when the charge against her is child endangerment.

Moreover, as this is a state case, Obama has no power to pardon Taylor. The president only has the power to pardon and commute federal sentences. Generally, the power to pardon state offenses rests with the governor and/or state pardon boards. In any event, no president or governor would touch this hot mess.

If I were a betting man, the parties will ultimately agree to another plea bargain, but this time Taylor will spend some time as an involuntary guest of the state and likely lose custody of her children, at least for a period of time.