Still another year before trial in Somer Thompson death to begin

Something has to be done to protect the victims' rights to "timely disposition." It is defenses strategy to delay as long as possible, hoping memories will fade, evidence will get lost, a technicality will cause a mistrial or be able to create doubt in the jury's minds. Witnesses and investigators move on or die. Delays always weaken the prosecution's case. Most states have a constitutional right to "timely dispostion." Florida does not. We need to define "timely disposition" and the victims family needs to be given the right to approve extensions beyond a year. A victim's right to "dignity and compassion" is not good enough. Courts think just saying sorry there is another delay is "dignity and compassion." Victims are re-victimized by our court system. We are dragged through hell with duct tape over our mouths every step of the way with the threat of "change of venue" or later, appeals. Victims constitutional rights have no consequences if the courts violate them. No one is accountable to the victims. This needs to change. Everyone needs to call their lawmakers and tell them we need to add a victim has a right to timely disposition of their case and a definition to "Timely disposition" needs to be established. There needs to be accountability and consequences for not treating the victims with "dignity and compassion." Diena can't talk or fight for this; but we can all stand up for her. We need to demand there are no more delays. My heart aches for Diena and her family. These delays are cruel and devastating. You can not heal. Your world is ripped apart and the system you are depending on to protect you and ensure justice is served causes so much more pain. Don't be silent. Speak out for Diena.