The defense strategic move to rely solely on Elizabeth's testimony left a sympathetic tone but omitted crucial expert testimony on intimate partner abuse.
Elizabeth repeatedly avoided taking responsibility and shifted blame, highlighting inconsistencies in her testimony and past deceptive actions.
Deep dives
The Defence Rests
After Elizabeth Holmes spent seven days on the stand, the defence decided not to call further witnesses, relying almost exclusively on Elizabeth's testimony. This strategic move left a sympathetic tone towards Elizabeth but also raised legal questions, notably omitting expert testimony on intimate partner abuse. The defence may have provided an opening for prosecutorial advantage by not including crucial expert testimony.
Cross Examination Highlight
Prosecutor Leech's cross-examination focused on Elizabeth's evasiveness and contradictions regarding military partnerships and financial projections. Elizabeth repeatedly avoided taking responsibility, shifting blame to others. The prosecution strategy aimed to highlight inconsistencies in Elizabeth's testimony by questioning her responses and revealing past deceptive actions.
Trade Secrets Protection
Through questioning by defence attorney Downey, Elizabeth emphasized the importance of protecting Theranos' trade secrets, underscoring that failure to do so would have been detrimental to the company. Elizabeth stated that non-disclosure of modified third-party devices was in line with trade secret policies, promoting her role in safeguarding intellectual property and the company's future.
Closing Arguments and Verdict
As the trial heads towards closing arguments and a potential verdict, both the defence and prosecution have presented their cases. The defence emphasized Elizabeth's vision for Theranos and her intentions to make a positive impact on healthcare. The jury's decision remains uncertain, with possible outcomes ranging from acquittal to conviction on all charges. The final verdict and sentencing considerations will play a significant role in determining Elizabeth's fate.
The testimony of Elizabeth Holmes continues this week, finally concluding after seven days. And in a surprising move, the defense calls no further witnesses, resting its case. So after three months and dozens of witnesses, who came out on top? Will the defense strategy pay off? Soon, both sides will have one last shot to make a case in closing arguments before 12 jurors decide the fate of Elizabeth Holmes.
