Story Photos
 Benjamin Pingle, left, listens to a prosecution witness testify during his trial. Roger Werth / The Daily News
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Man convicted in daughter's death now free on appeal bond
Thursday, June 19, 2008 11:36 PM PDT
By Thacher Schmid
Printable version
E-mail this articleA Castle Rock man sentenced to nearly 10 years in prison this week for killing one infant daughter and injuring another has been released on bond while he appeals his conviction.
That appeal could take up to two years, a frustrated county prosecutor said.
On May 30, jurors found Benjamin Pingle, 25, guilty of first-degree manslaughter in the 2006 death of his 12-week-old daughter Justice and third-degree assault of her twin, Liberty.
Tuesday, Superior Court Judge James Warme sentenced Pingle to 114 months on the two charges.
Wednesday, Pingle was transported from the Cowlitz County Jail to state prison in Shelton.
Thursday, he was released on a $250,000 bail bond ordered Tuesday by Judge Warme, who granted Pingle’s bail despite imposing a sentence at the top of the standard range for first-degree manslaughter.
In all, Pingle has served three weeks: Jan. 24 to Jan. 26, 2006, when he was first arrested, and May 30 to June 17, 2008, said staff at the Cowlitz County Jail, who added that Pingle stopped by Thursday morning to pick up a book, Tom Clancy’s “The Sum of All Fears.”
Cowlitz County Chief Prosecuting Attorney Susan Baur strenuously disagreed with Warme’s decision to grant bail.
“Justice delayed can be perceived as justice denied,” Baur said Thursday. “(Pingle) ought to be serving his sentence now.”
“He needs to take accountability for what happened. 12 people found beyond a reasonable doubt that this happened, and I would hazard a reasonable guess that they would be upset by this too.”
Baur said a two-year wait for a decision from the Tacoma-based Court of Appeals would be “typical.”
“I believe Judge Warme had every right to do what he did, and I believe he’s a great judge,” Baur said. “I disagree with his decision. I think ... that type of decision diminishes the public’s confidence in the swiftness of a jury’s decision.”
Through a court employee, Warme declined to comment on the case Thursday.
Washington State Department of Corrections spokesman Chad Lewis said Pingle will be under community supervision through the agency’s Longview office while awaiting his case’s resolution. Conditions of the appellate bond and his sentence forbid Pingle from having contact with children. Liberty is now in the custody of the state Department of Social and Human Services.
“It is a rare occurrence, it’s definitely not a routine move,” Lewis said of the granting of the appellate bond. “I don’t know how many (appellate bonds) we get, but we only get a handful a year.”
Longview attorney John Hays, who frequently handles court appeals, said courts are required to offer a defendant conditional liberty — except in capital cases — before a conviction, but after conviction, it’s up to the judge.
“The more serious the charge, usually, the more unlikely that the court will set an appellate bond, but it’s not unheard of, certainly,” Hays said.
Though he cautioned he is not familiar with the specifics of the case, Hays said the main factors Warme would consider before granting the bond would have been whether Pingle was a danger to the community, or a flight risk.
“Is this guy a danger to anybody walking on the street? Of course not.”
That the victim was a child and the crime occurred in a family context should not be cause for leniency, Baur said.
“People can snap and act out on children in manners in which they never expected the result. When it happens, it needs to be handled as swiftly as possible to show our commitment that just because it’s a child or a family situation, doesn’t mean it’s any less of a horrific act, whether it was intentional or reckless.”
The conviction on a manslaughter charge, rather than homicide, means the jury determined the act was reckless, Baur said.
Hays said the court has to consider the possibility the appeal will succeed; if it doesn’t, Pingle will serve his time. In the meantime, the considerable amount of money at stake is designed to keep him from fleeing.
“The fee on that bond is $25,000 a year, and nobody gets that money back, that’s the fee that the bail bondsman charges. That’s how they make their money. They’re on the hook for $250,000 if the guy skips.”
Pingle’s defense attorney, James Morgan, did not return calls seeking comment.
1980mustang wrote on Jun 19, 2008 5:46 PM:
" You have got to be kidding.... When a jury says guilty I always beleived that should stand until you have your appeal heard back in court.. I always have had respect for the judge that heard this case, but this is a slap in the face of people of Cowlitz County... "
Louie wrote on Jun 19, 2008 5:52 PM:
" That is about the worse decision I have heard of. Why the heck do we as citizens have to submit to serving on a jury if the judge can override the jury's decision. Suddenly jury duty has become even less appealing. Lousy pay for your time and now, your 12 person jury decision really holds no weight with certain judges. "
Mrs. Pellwerds wrote on Jun 19, 2008 6:04 PM:
" Remember, Judges are elected officials. Unfortunately they always run unopposed in Cowlitz County. "
Im_not_saying wrote on Jun 19, 2008 6:54 PM:
" Talk about diminishing the justice system! This is not some guy who held up a liquor store, HE KILLED SOMEONE!! In the meantime he is free to escape to Canada or go into hiding somewhere else! I was under the assumption that innocent until proven guilty meant when you are tried and convicted meant you are guilty, but apparently in this case he is innocent until proven innocent. Just another reason why no one trusts the legal system here! "
Someone Who Cares wrote on Jun 19, 2008 7:05 PM:
" This is our legal system that was implemented years ago. Judge Warme did not overide the jury's decision. The only ones who can override the jury's decision is the Appeals Court. Just because he's out on an appeals bond does not mean that he won't serve his sentence if the appeal is turned down. What is supposed to happen will happen. There are certain rights that defendants are entitled to. Would you rather have his rights violated and then have the conviction overturned on a technicality, if in fact he is guilty? There were too many unknowns and what ifs with this case. I think the appeals court would be the perfect set of people to look at this and make a decision based on knowledge and years of experience, not emotion. I don't know if he's guilty or not but that's not for me to decide. Let the people who know best how to decide, decide. "
Aconserve wrote on Jun 19, 2008 7:34 PM:
" Well it's about time Benj caught somewhat of a break. You people on here are ridiculous, like "someone who cares" said, what is supposed to happen will, don't worry. The appeals court will hear this case, and Benj will be free at last!! By the way the appeal is always paid by the state, your tax dollars, I couldn't think of a better way to spend em. Good luck Benj!! See you soon. "
1980mustang wrote on Jun 19, 2008 7:35 PM:
" First off let me say sorry for mispelling before. Judge Warme could have set a high enough bail he couldn't have raised the money to get out of jail. He has already been found guilty by his peers. In jail he should be. Our legal system is so fawed and we can't keep track of the people who are out on bail or probation so lets let one more walk away and start life somwhere eles so he can hurt or kill another child... Sounds good to me. "
observer wrote on Jun 19, 2008 7:37 PM:
" In response to "someone who cares", "too many unknowns and what ifs with this case". Did you happen to sit through the trial? I don't know how anyone could look at the pictures of the bruises on those babies and not know that had been abused. Comments by the defense were constantly made about the babies rolling on their binkies and getting bruised. You would only have had to see the bruises on Justice's back to know there is not a binky in the world that could do something like that. And honestly, he was already found guilty by 12 jurors who sat through hour after hour of testimony regarding these babies. They were there through the whole trial. They heard the babies doctors and the paid "experts". Why isn't he in jail? "
My Kids Mom wrote on Jun 19, 2008 8:57 PM:
" I'm not convinced that Benjamin Pingle is guilty. The whole thing just doesn't make sense. Back when I've know him he was just so gentle and mellow and just an all around pleasant and genuine person. I can see how people would be feeling the way they feel because they don't know him but I just don't think that he hurt his little girl...not for one second. "
observer wrote on Jun 19, 2008 9:09 PM:
" There seems to be some assumption that anyone who knows Ben, would know that he is not guilty. There are people who know Ben who do believe he is guilty. "
shock n awe wrote on Jun 19, 2008 9:29 PM:
" Hello Goodboy, I want to say it's clear you are working from the same angle the prosecution is...the facts are not correct!!! Grandpa Pingle never stood up to say anything in the court room. That was his grandpa but not grandpa Pingle. See how easy it is to twist the facts. One more thing...If the Prosecution really thought Benjamin Pingle was guilty they would not have told his attorney they were offering him a 15 month plea deal. One that he didn't take because he trusted the system. That was his biggest error. "
luvbngram wrote on Jun 19, 2008 9:37 PM:
" was that the grandpa who stood up and said the U.S. flag might as well be Iraqi in the courtroom? "
goodboy wrote on Jun 19, 2008 9:42 PM:
" Ahh, that could be why they censored me again. Let me rephrase without names. This is to whichever of Bens grandfathers stood up and said they sat through the whole ordeal. You and your entire family (and friends circle) skipped the days where they posted the autopsy photos. Just because you chose to live in the dark doesnt make the photos untrue. Justice was beaten to death. LOOK AT THE PHOTOS before you ever say how proud you are of him. "
nexus wrote on Jun 19, 2008 9:44 PM:
" There is a quote that the daily news conveniently left out. This is from the judge who presided over the whole trial and sentenced him, and I quote "It is a mystery to me as to why Mr. Pingle is sitting here before me." This was during the sentencing. It was clear to me during the sentencing that the judge had some real reservations on his conviction and the facts didn't line up but he had to side with the jury's decision. If this had been a bench trial I believe he would have been acquitted but because it was jury who can be emotionally swayed he was found guilty. There was a lot of evidence the defense was denied to enter that the appellate court will need to sort out because things just don't add up! "
Im_not_saying wrote on Jun 19, 2008 9:46 PM:
" The truth is that our law enforcement and court system is way out of touch with reality. For as long as I can remember the accused have WAY more rights than any victim anymore. All you people who say that he could have never done this - Remember - Jeffery Dahmer had a long line of people saying he could never have done it either. An abuser gets away with it because those around him A) never seem to see the abuse happening, and B) believes the lies that he tells. I have seen a LOT of babies. I've seen babies scratch their faces and bodies, seen them with tiny bruises, But absolutely nothing as what was produced as evidence in this trial. "
luvbngram wrote on Jun 19, 2008 10:16 PM:
" anyone who sat through the trial and saw all of the many photos of the babies with bruises on their faces, autopsy photos of deep tissue bruising that would have only shown to the naked eye days after the injury occured, if she had lived. Photos of Liberty with a quarter size wound in the middle of her forhead that one Dr. said appeared to be a burn, and at the sentencing Judge Warme stated the wound appeared to be a burn to him...anyone who sat and witnessed all of that evidence, would realize those babies were assaulted...and Justice died as a result. "
brainiac wrote on Jun 19, 2008 10:43 PM:
" Oh my! This story belongs on "Power, Privilege and Justice" This does not seem fair at all on many levels. Money talks! I guess he is just real lucky to have access to it. "
luvbngram wrote on Jun 19, 2008 10:49 PM:
" it is my opinion that it is a huge slap in the face that this man is out on bail bond "free" while he awaits his appeal, that could take years. He was convicted of manslaughter, his daughter was only 86 days old! Covered with bruises. He was convicted of assault on his other twin daughter as well...how is this Justice? (strangely enough, also his daughters name who is now dead!) "
problemsolver wrote on Jun 19, 2008 10:53 PM:
" Oh heaven help us all...he's guilty! Let him appeal all he wants at his own expense but good grief...you should have kept him in jail judge! Not only did he deserve more than the 10 short years it would've taken his beautiful daughter to get to the 4th grade, he deserves to be in jail while he keeps trying to perhaps snow a more naive jury into believing the experts he hired rather than the people who actually laid eyes on his children and tried to save their lives. Thank the Lord one of them lived. Don't give him the chance to be near her! "
luvbngram wrote on Jun 19, 2008 11:02 PM:
" unfortunately, he has requested a court appointed attorney for his appeal, we as taxpayers get to pay for that. Also, his witnesses, the expensive specialists that were flown in and paid for...all on taxpayers money. A matter of public record. You can locate information on this on the Washington State Court website. "
K500 wrote on Jun 19, 2008 11:36 PM:
" Sadly, this is not the first questionable decision by this judge. He is soft on criminals. Vote him out at the next election. "
local taxpayer wrote on Jun 20, 2008 2:51 AM:
" Like Mrs.Pellwerds said the judges seem to always run unopposed. It is about time someone that can take a tougher stand against crime stands up and runs against them so that we have a choice. and also to aconserv, dont forget that those are also your tax dollars. When his judgement is upheld it is also your money that paid for that. Not to mention someone is buying a bailbonds man a new car every year. Only to prolong his time away from his kids that he says he loves so much. So in a way this only protects those children that much longer. "
chevguy wrote on Jun 20, 2008 3:00 AM:
" Wow!!! my tax dollars at work for his appeal? Hello.....A jury of 12 decided his fate, There should be no appeal for a murderer, let alone being let out of prison.Maybe the ones who think he's such a wonderful guy are lookin for a babysitter.Wake up!!!He was found GUILTY. "
local taxpayer wrote on Jun 20, 2008 3:16 AM:
" I guess that the Pingles feel it is better for Liberty to be raised by a foster home while Mr. Pingle is out. I know I do. "
feistyone wrote on Jun 20, 2008 3:51 AM:
" I am shocked. If he was found guilty, he should be in jail or prison while waiting for his appeal just like anyone else. I too have had a lot of respect for this judge but am wondering, "what are you thinking"? I agree our justice system is in need of reform. This is sickening. "
goodboy wrote on Jun 20, 2008 6:12 AM:
" Yes, Warme is soft on criminals. When he aggreed to bail for Pingle he stated (paraphrased) I dont believe Ben is a preditor. I dont believe he is any longer a threat to his familty. End paraphrase. Umm ... Thats because he has already beaten his daughter to death, and the other one has been taken by the state. How can you be a further threat to someone you have already killed? "
WWJD wrote on Jun 20, 2008 7:17 AM:
" Why not let him make his appeal from prison? The jury found him guilty, he should be there. "
The Grateful Dad wrote on Jun 20, 2008 7:19 AM:
" First of all, luvbngram, PAID EXPERT WITNESSES ARE COMMONPLACE IN CRIMINAL TRIALS. The prosecution in this case probably used twice as many paid witnesses than the defense used. Do you really think that government officials that are subpoenaed to be witnesses in a criminal trial just sit there with no pay? Someone needs to get a grip on reality. Now, to Krystal, Rick, Kim, all of the loving parents, grandparents, and other family members, I've said it before, and I'll say it again... IT'S NOT OVER. We are praying and will continue to pray. We are seeing the results of those prayers already. It wasn't the bail money that got Benj free, it was the judge's decision, and the Judge of All influenced that decision, just like we prayed would happen. He is faithful! "
just a mom wrote on Jun 20, 2008 7:29 AM:
" The article says that Liberty is now in the custody of Social and Human services, foster care... why is this? Her mom was not charged (?) so why isn't she living with her mom? Does anyone know? "
keepin it real wrote on Jun 20, 2008 7:55 AM:
" I see that kpringle has not left any comments as of yet. I am sure she is busy with her free husband. I guess that is more important to her than her other child that is going to be with social services until her husband goes to jail, which he will go to jail. Nobody is saying Benj (what his close friends seem to call him) is a gentle and kind person, but you would be fooling yourself if you say that parents don't get frustrated and act out on that frustration. He obviously did so. He will serve his time, don't worry about that. "
kelsolady wrote on Jun 20, 2008 8:19 AM:
" they placed her in care of a family member. dshs had to take her then place her. i think she's not with mom cause she supports husband/dad. not really our business tho. PLUS people are released on bonds everyday... why dont all of you protest at city all instead of on here? "
observer wrote on Jun 20, 2008 8:38 AM:
" It's true that doctors do get paid for the time they are spending at trial that they could be caring for their patients, but most doctors get a normal fee. Then, there are doctors like Dr. Leestma, who has testified at over 100 cases in the past 11 years, whose usual fee is $10,000.00 per day and also $750 per hour to review the case. In this case he stated that he spent approximately 20-30 hours in preparation for trial. Dr. Leestma has never been a Medical Examiner, it is not part of his job to reach conclusions regarding the cause and manner of death, he does it for trials. He said he's never attended the autopsy in any of the trials he's given his opinion on. He also said he never even spoke with the obstetrician in this case regarding the birth of the babies.
Also, in regard to Liberty, she is still in care of the state at this time. Her mother chose to "stand by her man", and Ben was not and is not allowed contact with Liberty. "
Also, in regard to Liberty, she is still in care of the state at this time. Her mother chose to "stand by her man", and Ben was not and is not allowed contact with Liberty. "
observer wrote on Jun 20, 2008 8:43 AM:
" If any of you are interested in making your opinion known regarding this decision, you might want to write a letter to the editor, or to the court as these blogs seldom get read by too many people. "
lou wrote on Jun 20, 2008 9:28 AM:
" To all of you who are getting upset that Ben is not in prison, he is, maybe not behind bars but we all know what he looks like as we see his face up close in the pictures. You are all judging him so strongly here I am sure you would judge him should you see him on the streets. What about his rights? I understand that Justice has no rights but, Ben does. If he appeals and looses then he will go to prison. Until then, let it go. "
somedude wrote on Jun 20, 2008 9:42 AM:
" The system is broken. I don't understand how he can be out on bail? Most people who appeal sit in prison. Just think of it this way, it's gotta make ya feel very good to know that between now and sometime in the next two years that at any minute you could be snatched up and put back in Prison now that's torture people, when he's back in prison realizing that he could have gotten out a little sooner if he would have awaited his appeal in prison. For up to the next two years this man will have to look constantly over his shoulder anywhere he goes! "
shoegirl wrote on Jun 20, 2008 9:54 AM:
" 15 people sat on a jury for 3 weeks looking at autopsy photos, listened carefully to highly paid and not paid expert witnesses, listen to the family say how wonderful Ben Pingle is and the 12 of those jurors found him GUILTY without a resonable doubt. He killed Justice. And now he gets to walk free around are streets, great. Why should we care about meth heads and tweekers when a killer can now rome free. This whole case just makes me ill!!!!! I feel sorry for the family with the blinders on but you have seen the same edvidence and need to open your eyes to what Ben did! "
Angel of Mercy wrote on Jun 20, 2008 11:03 AM:
" I have followed some voices out there that have never suffered being falsely accused in anyway like this. My comment is that there are those who are experts in judging the other person; maybe they judge the judge, attorney, family, or our government; (we all have) but when we have lived life long enough we gain wisdom, mercy, and compassion through our own trials and test in life.
Judge Warme you have done well, in that you humbled yourself and said I would like to have some answers from the Appeal Judges. You showed mercy over judgment.
I believe this outcome is according to law, and intelligent and reasonable people would let this take its course.
I have noticed there are some who would love to take the place of judge, jury, and God Himself, how about taking the place of humility, and mercy.
I see quit a few who have mercy in their words, and to you mercy is shown in you life. You have suffered unjustly, and have forgiven.
Wisdom says judge not lest you be judge. We have a system maybe not perfect, but it is what we have, so let us hold our peace and get on with our own lives, guarding our tongues, hearts, and attitude. Asking for mercy on our own lifes trials also.
May Justice find you innocent Benjamin when your appeal is considered, and may you show mercy and grace, forgiveness to all who condemn you, they just dont know what true Justice is about!
In our imperfect world may we point only to ourselves, and cry to the Supreme Court over all Have Mercy on us. "
Judge Warme you have done well, in that you humbled yourself and said I would like to have some answers from the Appeal Judges. You showed mercy over judgment.
I believe this outcome is according to law, and intelligent and reasonable people would let this take its course.
I have noticed there are some who would love to take the place of judge, jury, and God Himself, how about taking the place of humility, and mercy.
I see quit a few who have mercy in their words, and to you mercy is shown in you life. You have suffered unjustly, and have forgiven.
Wisdom says judge not lest you be judge. We have a system maybe not perfect, but it is what we have, so let us hold our peace and get on with our own lives, guarding our tongues, hearts, and attitude. Asking for mercy on our own lifes trials also.
May Justice find you innocent Benjamin when your appeal is considered, and may you show mercy and grace, forgiveness to all who condemn you, they just dont know what true Justice is about!
In our imperfect world may we point only to ourselves, and cry to the Supreme Court over all Have Mercy on us. "
bethanisp wrote on Jun 20, 2008 11:46 AM:
" Thank you God for answering our prayers for benj. It is in your hands! Benjamin is not only my brother but he is my best friend, and I love him very much. Sorry that the daily news got their story twisted people, but think what you want! We know the truth!
LOVE YOU BENJ AND KRYSTAL! "
LOVE YOU BENJ AND KRYSTAL! "
brainiac wrote on Jun 20, 2008 12:20 PM:
" The Grateful Dad says it's not the bail money that set him free, it's the judges decision. I believe it's a combination of both. There's a lot of people who would not be able to come up with that kind of money. I think this is just prolonging the inevitable. Do the time and get it over with! "
IWCJ wrote on Jun 20, 2008 12:42 PM:
" I hereby vow to never serve on a jury again. What a complete waste of time. "
isthisjustice wrote on Jun 20, 2008 1:06 PM:
" I too sat through this trial. I watched testimony from both the defense and prosecution witnesses. I saw every autopsy photo shown. I saw photos of the surviving twin with marks that you do not often see on infants. Each day of the trial it saddened me deeply that the only people there for Justice were people who had never met her. The family only shed tears when the impact to Ben was talked about. The grandfather stood and said that justice was dead just prior to Bens sentencing. He railed against the injustice to his grandson. Justice is dead. His greatgrandaughter was killed, and I personally shed tears for a little baby I have never met whose family does not seek to recognize the truth about her death. "
Carrienwa wrote on Jun 20, 2008 1:54 PM:
" What is really going on here? What is the matter with this towns' justice system? Have you ever heard of a psychopath? This whole case makes me sick to my stomach and to think that he was only convicted of Manslaughter 1, max of 10 years in prison, what??????? For the death of an innocent child that didn't even get the chance to live because of an adults irresponsibility and mental status off q, heres your slap on the hand!!!! Family wake up and get into reality!!!! "
Proud Mama wrote on Jun 20, 2008 2:42 PM:
" To Kelsolady: Absolutely it is our business. It is all our business as a community to care for the welfare of all our people, especially our young and elderly. You sound like you grew up in the era where you just stood by and watched a man beat the crap out of his wife and children and turned and said "none of my business" as you stood by and did nothing. I bet Justice wishes someone would have stood up for her! "
LongviewRez wrote on Jun 20, 2008 3:31 PM:
" Why is it always manslaughter and a more lenient sentence when a parent kills his child when and adult murdered would be life (or the death penalty)? Why aren't we as protective of the innocent ones? "
taffeta wrote on Jun 20, 2008 9:33 PM:
" The victim is not Pingle we should we not forget that! An innocent child in her family home should have been her safe haven. Instead her life was snuffed out. A jury decided the case becasue Pingle chose to have a jury trial. He could have had the judge decide. If he wanted leniency,Pingle should have had the Judge hear the trial without a jury. He needs to take accountability for his choices. 12 people found beyond a reasonable doubt that it happened. Why should he be treated so "special" to be able to stay out to appeal. It sounds like someone is lining their pockets with non refundable bail money. and I would hazard a reasonable guess that no one is going to yell real loud when that kind of money comes into Cowlitz County. "
Piper wrote on Jun 20, 2008 11:56 PM:
" To LongviewRez: It's the same reason that you cannot get as much money in a civil trial for punitive damages for the life of a child as you can for an adult. It is crazy. The justice system doesn't value the life of a child.
It is obvious where Pingle got his value system. "
It is obvious where Pingle got his value system. "
Ella Mentry wrote on Jun 21, 2008 10:32 AM:
" God forbid, if my husband was convicted of killing my baby...even though I believed in his innocence...and he was released on an appeal bond, there is NO WAY IN HELL I would give up another child just to be with him. That just goes against all things maternal and right. What has happened to common sense, values, and the moral fiber of this society? "
Commenter wrote on Jun 21, 2008 11:00 AM:
" Murder = Intent to kill (can be difficult to prove)... Manslaughter = Causing death without intent to kill, or causing death by negligence... Most cases like this are considered Manslaughter. Most parents don't intend to kill their children, except of course those like Susan Smith. The reason the punishment is so much lighter is because manslaughter is looked more upon as an "accident". For example, you're pulling out of that Starbucks drive thru, you pick up your coffee to take a drink, as you take that sip, you take your eyes off the road in front of you. In that instance a bicyclist rides past in front of you. You don't see him in time, he hits his head hard when he goes down and dies from the injury. You COULD be charged with manslaughter. You did not intend to kill somebody, but through negligence, you did. Is that worthy of a life sentence? As for this case... He probably did not intend to kill his child, but with their fragile condition, evidence was show he contributed to their death, thus producing a conviction. If evidence was left out or errors were made, the appeals court will overturn. I don't fully understand the judges decision though. I can understand the judge allowing him to be out during the trial, but not after conviction and sentencing. Sure, he probably poses no threat, but if he was anything but white or famous, he would be sitting in jail right now. "
1980mustang wrote on Jun 21, 2008 7:47 PM:
" If his family can come up with the money to bail him out he should be able to come up with the money to defend himself.. Its going to cost the tax payer enough just to get the appeal process started. "
luvbngram wrote on Jun 22, 2008 8:55 AM:
" a father convicted of assault on one child, convicted of actions causing death of another. Father free to live his life until appeal which will take years to happen. The Child who was assaulted in Foster Care (thankfully). Mom standing by her husband at cost of her infants safety. A family deep in denial. How tragic for the babies. "
duckguy wrote on Jun 23, 2008 10:14 AM:
" If Pingle was a man who truly cared about his children he would sit in jail and await his appeal so that the surviving child could be with it's mother. Instead he cares more for his freedom than he cares about the well-being of his child. Just another example of how great and loving of a father he really is.
Now the child will be in Foster care for several years while the appeal process takes place. It is a really strong statement about both parents, I think the child is better off away from them. "
Now the child will be in Foster care for several years while the appeal process takes place. It is a really strong statement about both parents, I think the child is better off away from them. "
Piper wrote on Jun 23, 2008 9:45 PM:
" Don't they have to terminate parental rights when kids are in foster care for more than 18 months?? "
SASSY wrote on Jun 25, 2008 8:36 AM:
" I WAS MARRIED TO ONE OF THESES TYPES OF MEN FOR 10 VERY LONG YEARS, HE ALWAYS SAID HE NEVER MEANT TO HURT ME OR THE CHILDERN, BUT HE DID MENTALY AND AND PHYICALY. ALL MY SO CALLED FRIENDS TOLD ME TO STAY AND WORK IT OUT, I TOOK THOSE BEATING FOR MANY YEARS BUT, WHEN HE THROUGH MY CHILD ACROSS THE ROOM, I HAD ENOUGH. THANK THE LORD I DID, HE IS NOW SERVING LIFE IN PRISON FOR KILLING SOME ONE ELSE THAT HE SO DEARLY LOVED, SHE WAS 17. IN THE END IT TOOK 28 YEARS FOR THE JUSTICE SYSTEM TO WORK AND A DIFFERENT STATE BEFORE HE GOT WHAT HE DESERVED. THIS WILL LIVE WITH ME AND MY CHILDERN FOR THE REST OF OUR LIVES, FACE IT. THE MOTHER IS NO BETTER IN THIS CASE THEN BENJI, LEAVE WHEN YOU SEE THE FRIST SIGNS OF ABUSE, THE DOOR SWINGS BOTH WAYS. IT IS SO SAD THAT IT HAS ALL COME DOWN TO HOW SAD, BENJ. MAY HAVE TO SPEND TIME IN JAIL/ PRISON. WHO IS THE VICTIM, NOT HIM! THIS IS ABOUT THE CHILDERN.. AND I HOPE THE LITTLE GIRL THAT LIVED WILL NEVER SEE THOSE TWO AGAIN. PARENT'S WATCH FOR THE SIGN'S OF ABUSE, DON'T BE BLIND. "
writegirl wrote on Jun 25, 2008 9:45 AM:
" Was the surviving baby taken from the mother before or after the husband was released? I hope to God it was before, because if she chose to have him home with her at the expense of losing a second child... Wow. As a mother, that thought sickens me. Guilty or not, your first responsibilty is to your children. Not to someone who may or may not have killed one of your babies already. A mother's job is to protect her babies. "
mole wrote on Jun 27, 2008 10:45 AM:
" THIS GUY DID NOT TAKE A SIP OF COFFEE!!HE BEAT THE LIFE OUT OF ONE AND INJURED ANOTHER,THAT JUDGE,SHOULD HAVE SAID NO BAIL.IF HE HAS MONEY, HE HAS MONEY TO RUN.IS HE GETTING A COURT APPOINTED LAWYER,AND IF HE IS ,WHY? "
julietorell wrote on Jun 29, 2008 10:57 AM:
" To Krystal: Nothing can bring your daughter back, but you have a choice as a mother to go on and make a life with Liberty. If you choose your husband over your child, you will never get over losing her, and it is far more hearbreaking! Better to be a single parent! A Mom and her child(ren) = a Family! If your husband truly cares about you, he will tell you to go on in life with your child, without him! "
eggy wrote on Jun 29, 2008 5:41 PM:
" To 'keepin it real': Krystal loves her child and is working to get her back, why the hell would she waste her time on this pitiful site replying to fools like you?
To SASSY: You don't know Ben. Your ex isn't Ben. Get over yourself and quit judging.
To Julietorell: You obviously don't know these people. Benji DID tell KP to stay with Liberty, and I'm sure that's exactly what they're trying to get done.
To the rest of you judgemental kiddies:
Grow up. Don't say squat unless you know the facts. I'm glad my tax dollars are going towards his appeal, because after reviewing as much as I can on this case, he's an innocent man. "
To SASSY: You don't know Ben. Your ex isn't Ben. Get over yourself and quit judging.
To Julietorell: You obviously don't know these people. Benji DID tell KP to stay with Liberty, and I'm sure that's exactly what they're trying to get done.
To the rest of you judgemental kiddies:
Grow up. Don't say squat unless you know the facts. I'm glad my tax dollars are going towards his appeal, because after reviewing as much as I can on this case, he's an innocent man. "
julietorell wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:46 PM:
" To eggy: You are correct , I don't know them, and I am not judging them. I just realize that sometimes tragedies happen , and sometimes a husband is not who you think he is. When you must choose your children over your husband, because their safety, justice, the law, social services, and just plain common sense demands it, you do! I wish the best for Krystal and Liberty. "
Meeche wrote on Jul 1, 2008 11:00 AM:
" To eggy. You are on here defending two people... A man that is convicted of killing one of his 12 week old babies and abusing her twin... A 12 week old BABY. And then you defend the girls mother who has not only failed as a mother to protect her children, but then allows the child to be taken away so that she can be with her childs killer. This is sick and wrong. Everyone is on here defending this man and his wife. It is disgusting. Try defending Liberty!!! It is too late to defend Justice. But for Gods sake, Liberty is still here. It is not to late to protect her. Please take all the energy that you are putting into convincing all he is innocent and she is right, and redirect it to this baby. She can't count on her mother and father obviously. "
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