"Ms. Richardson, we have been living with this case now for over two years. Actually, part of it is still in the Supreme Court, even as we speak right now. And I’ve always sort of thought of this case, Ms. Richardson, as a story of two little girls: Skylar Richardson and Annabelle Richardson. And, you know, I have a daughter about your age, Ms. Richardson, and I have a granddaughter about the age that Annabelle would be right now.
The jury found that the state did not prove that you were guilty of killing your baby, either intentionally by way of aggravated murder or recklessly by the involuntary manslaughter. But in all of this mess that we have with this case, I think what often gets overlooked, Ms. Richardson, is just how precious life is. Your life, Annabelle’s life, life is precious, and it should be protected, and it should be guarded in all respects.
"And I have reviewed all of the expert reports in this case. I listened to the experts’ testimony in this case. I firmly believe, in fact, I know in my heart, that if you would have made different decisions in this case, Annabelle would be here today. And I know that might be difficult for you to hear.
"Some people are inclined to think to themselves, you know, this is America, we kill unborn babies every day. But I don’t look at it that way, and the law does not allow me, Ms. Richardson, and the law does not allow me to consider the acts that you took prior to giving birth, but I think that your choices before birth, during birth, and after, show a grotesque disregard for life.
"And I think when I look at this case, that to me is what offends the community sensibilities. But because of policy decisions beyond my purview, the jury was not permitted to consider those things, and neither am I, so I don’t hold those things against you in the sentencing."
