Sarah Boone, the Florida woman accused of second-degree murder in the 2020 death of her boyfriend, Jorge Torres Jr., returned to court to fight for better jail conditions and more freedom during her upcoming trial. Boone, 46, who is now representing herself, has raised concerns over her lack of access to resources like the Internet and a telephone, which she argues are essential for her to prepare an adequate defense.
Boone’s legal battles have been anything but straightforward. After going through eight different lawyers, Boone lost her right to legal counsel in June when multiple attorneys resigned, citing "irreconcilable differences." Now, facing the serious charge of second-degree murder, Boone is demanding the tools she believes are necessary to mount her own defense.
At a recent court hearing, Boone argued for the right to be unshackled and unhandcuffed during her trial. In a handwritten motion, she explained that these restrictions hinder her ability to perform basic tasks, such as turning pages, opening documents, and writing without injury. "I'm just asking to sit here unhandcuffed so I can write without taking skin off of my wrist and being extremely uncomfortable," Boone said during the hearing.
Despite objections from law enforcement, who cited Boone’s history of domestic violence and her current murder charge as reasons to maintain the restraints, Orange County Circuit Judge Michael S. Kraynick ruled in Boone’s favor. Sheriff's Deputy Gavin Lowtan expressed his concerns, noting that Boone's past behavior showed a "propensity for violence" and a disregard for lawful commands. However, Boone countered by highlighting her compliance during the nearly five years she has been in custody. "I've never missed a court date. In the almost five years that I've been here, I've never argued, I've never hesitated," Boone asserted.
Judge Kraynick approved Boone’s request, allowing her to appear in court without handcuffs. Additionally, her leg shackles will be removed once her trial begins on October 7. However, Boone will still be required to wear a stun cuff during the proceedings. This wireless device, secured to her leg, can discharge 50,000 volts of electricity, which would incapacitate her if triggered. Courthouse deputy Chad Barnett testified that a deputy would monitor and control the cuff throughout the trial to ensure safety.
Boone is scheduled to appear in court again on Wednesday to discuss her access to the evidence in her case, another crucial point in her self-representation. With her trial date approaching, Boone continues to fight for the resources and conditions she believes are necessary to defend herself against the serious charges she faces.
The case has drawn significant public attention, not only due to the bizarre circumstances surrounding Torres' death—allegedly after being convinced to get into a suitcase—but also because of Boone's unorthodox and contentious journey through the legal system. As Boone prepares to face a jury, her ability to effectively represent herself remains under scrutiny, as does the court's decision to grant her the concessions she has requested.
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