This podcast details true crime cases. It contains adult themes and may contain descriptions of

violence. It is not intended for children. Listener discretion is advised.

Thank you for joining me for this final episode of The True Tale of Lizzie Borden.

In part one, we explored the tense dynamics within the Borden household and followed the

investigation that led to Lizzie's arrest.

In part two, I detailed the high-profile double murder trial that gripped the nation. We heard from witnesses and learned what evidence the prosecution presented to the jury

to show that Lizzie Borden alone had the motive, means, and opportunity

to commit the slaying of her father and stepmother.

In this final chapter, we'll hear the defense's case,

learn the verdict, and look at the aftermath of this infamous true crime case.

This is Part 3, the final chapter of The its case against Lizzie Borden.

Now the defense's job was to convince the jury that their client was innocent. Lizzie's attorney, Andrew Jennings, made his opening statement.

He told of the many years he'd been acquainted with the Borton family

and said Andrew Borden, the victim, was a close friend.

He outlined for the jury his client's upstanding reputation in the community,

as a Christian woman and church member active in charitable

works. The prosecution's case was, quote, holy and absolutely circumstantial, Jennings said,

claiming the police had rushed to judgment, and, quote, fastened this crime upon Ms. Borden for some

reason or another, end quote.

Jennings told the jury not to be swayed by theories. Their job was to determine whether the prosecution had furnished the proof the law required, that, quote, Lizzie Andrew Borden

did it, and that there is absolutely no opportunity for anybody else.

He pointed out that there was no direct evidence against his client.

...