150 word discussion post

Topic: Vetting Potential Jurists

You have been selected to be a juror on a rape trial. The victim presented very graphic and compelling testimony that she was raped by the defendant and that she was told by the defendant that if she resisted, she would be killed. The victim also stated that the defendant had a gun when the attack occurred. The prosecution presented DNA evidence that the defendant engaged in sexual activity with the victim but there is little physical evidence to support the victim’s claims that the sex was not consensual (bruising, tearing, cuts, etc.) The defendant has chosen not to testify at trial.

As a juror, what do you think about the defendant’s decision not to testify at trial? Would you want to hear from the defendant during the trial or could you not consider in any way the defendant’s decision not to testify? Make sure to explain your reasoning.