Mother Accused of Murdering Daughter: Ex-FBI Agent Discusses Insanity Plea

Murder Charge and Jurisdiction

• 📌 Ashlee Buzzard faces a murder charge with special allegations, potentially eligible for the death penalty in California.
• ⚠️ California's death penalty moratorium makes the death penalty a moot point, despite the charge.
• 🗺️ The decision to charge Buzzard in California for a crime that occurred in Utah is noted as surprising by the ex-FBI agent.

Premeditation and Evidence

• ⏳ Officials allege premeditation of the crime, which they believe took place well in advance of the journey.
• ⚖️ Proving premeditation that occurred in California will be a long road for the prosecution.
• 🔫 The recovery of the weapon is still pending, which makes the case more difficult.
• 🔬 Ballistic evidence, including a bullet found at the scene, in the rental car, and at the house, all match in consistency, aiding the case.

Psychological Defense Strategy

• 🧠 The defense is expected to enter a plea of not guilty and pursue an insanity plea.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The mother has reportedly struggled with mental health issues for many years, known to family and others.

Legal Hurdles for Insanity Plea

• ✅ An insanity plea is not a guaranteed get out of jail free card.
• 🧠 The defense must prove that Buzzard did not know what she was doing was wrong.
• ⚠️ Evidence of evasive techniques, returning to the house, and covering things up will likely be used to show she knew her actions were wrong.