1 00:00:03,746 --> 00:00:05,421 (phone ringing) 2 00:00:06,749 --> 00:00:08,749 (operator speaking) 3 00:00:08,843 --> 00:00:10,134 (woman speaking) 4 00:00:16,592 --> 00:00:17,850 (operator speaking) 5 00:00:18,835 --> 00:00:19,852 (woman speaking) 6 00:00:25,026 --> 00:00:25,858 (officer speaking) 7 00:00:29,030 --> 00:00:29,945 (woman 1 speaking) 8 00:00:32,533 --> 00:00:33,490 (woman 2 speaking) 9 00:00:37,930 --> 00:00:39,613 That night, you know, it was christmas day. 10 00:00:39,707 --> 00:00:41,022 I was with my family, 11 00:00:41,042 --> 00:00:44,618 Spending time before I leave out of town. 12 00:00:44,712 --> 00:00:46,861 Adam burke: The prosecutor is painting this picture of taiz 13 00:00:46,881 --> 00:00:49,289 As someone who's committed this horrible crime, 14 00:00:49,383 --> 00:00:51,050 But she's saying that she wasn't even there. 15 00:00:56,131 --> 00:00:58,615 Taiz cruz: I was a travel nurse assistant, 16 00:00:58,708 --> 00:01:01,301 Working in covid crisis response. 17 00:01:01,395 --> 00:01:03,620 I don't have anything to hide or prove to anyone, 18 00:01:03,713 --> 00:01:04,971 Other than that I didn't do this. 19 00:01:05,066 --> 00:01:06,065 I'm innocent. 20 00:01:25,569 --> 00:01:28,145 Burke: My name is adam burke. I'm a criminal defense attorney 21 00:01:28,163 --> 00:01:30,923 And I represent taiz cruz. 22 00:01:31,150 --> 00:01:34,501 Taiz is charged with aggravated burglary. 23 00:01:34,595 --> 00:01:35,928 Aggravated burglary 24 00:01:36,079 --> 00:01:38,764 Involves a forcible entry into an occupied residence 25 00:01:38,991 --> 00:01:42,750 With the intention of inflicting bodily harm. 26 00:01:42,845 --> 00:01:44,494 It is a first-degree felony 27 00:01:44,588 --> 00:01:46,105 That carries up to 11 years in prison. 28 00:01:48,109 --> 00:01:50,183 She is accused of helping a close friend of hers 29 00:01:50,277 --> 00:01:51,944 To smash into a home 30 00:01:52,095 --> 00:01:53,862 And beat up the mother of his child. 31 00:01:55,524 --> 00:01:57,674 On christmas day of 2020, 32 00:01:57,767 --> 00:01:59,451 Taiz's best friend and roommate 33 00:01:59,678 --> 00:02:02,362 Was having a custody fight with the child's mom. 34 00:02:02,514 --> 00:02:05,682 He's scheduled to have visitation that evening, 35 00:02:05,775 --> 00:02:08,210 But the mother is withholding his child. 36 00:02:18,530 --> 00:02:20,305 (indistinct conversation) 37 00:02:30,133 --> 00:02:32,225 Burke: The mother is inside the home, 38 00:02:32,378 --> 00:02:33,710 But doesn't answer the door 39 00:02:33,729 --> 00:02:35,946 Either for the police or for the father. 40 00:02:46,558 --> 00:02:48,909 Burke: The mother alleges that she receives a text 41 00:02:49,003 --> 00:02:50,560 From the father, 42 00:02:50,579 --> 00:02:51,986 Threatening that if he does not get 43 00:02:52,006 --> 00:02:53,914 This child handed over to him, 44 00:02:54,008 --> 00:02:56,175 Then they were going to handle it the street way. 45 00:02:56,326 --> 00:02:59,678 And he was going to pay someone $500 to beat her up. 46 00:03:11,433 --> 00:03:13,859 Two intruders were masked, 47 00:03:14,086 --> 00:03:17,604 Wearing dark clothing, came into the residence, 48 00:03:17,756 --> 00:03:20,699 Forced their way into the upstairs bedroom 49 00:03:20,926 --> 00:03:23,535 And physically assaulted the mother and the grandmother 50 00:03:23,762 --> 00:03:25,370 Of this child in front of the child. 51 00:03:39,795 --> 00:03:43,055 This case is based solely on witness testimony. 52 00:03:43,282 --> 00:03:45,298 There is no physical evidence whatsoever 53 00:03:45,392 --> 00:03:47,059 Tying taiz to the crime scene. 54 00:03:49,972 --> 00:03:53,457 The most challenging aspect of this case for the defense 55 00:03:53,475 --> 00:03:55,809 Is that we are going to have witnesses 56 00:03:55,961 --> 00:03:58,320 Who are going to be very adamant that it was her that did this. 57 00:04:00,649 --> 00:04:02,407 The baby's mother and grandmother 58 00:04:02,634 --> 00:04:04,409 Both claim that her mask came off, 59 00:04:04,561 --> 00:04:06,870 And based on that, they were able to identify her. 60 00:04:18,333 --> 00:04:23,653 This is something that taiz has been consistent she did not do. 61 00:04:23,672 --> 00:04:27,248 She wants to be able to prove her innocence through a trial. 62 00:04:27,268 --> 00:04:31,328 So, ultimately, the decision is in the hands of a jury. 63 00:04:31,421 --> 00:04:33,588 She faces a very real possibility 64 00:04:33,607 --> 00:04:36,066 Of a significant amount of time in prison. 65 00:04:54,277 --> 00:04:56,128 Dante. Oreo. Oreo! (clicks tongue) 66 00:05:06,031 --> 00:05:08,031 Being wrongfully accused of a crime like this 67 00:05:08,050 --> 00:05:09,791 Is definitely traumatic 68 00:05:09,810 --> 00:05:12,552 And something I never expected would happen to me. 69 00:05:12,646 --> 00:05:14,538 Come on. 70 00:05:14,556 --> 00:05:17,390 I feel like I walk around with a rainstorm cloud 71 00:05:17,484 --> 00:05:19,543 Following me every single day. 72 00:05:19,561 --> 00:05:21,820 It's a constant worry about your life. 73 00:05:23,549 --> 00:05:25,824 My dogs, dante and oreo. 74 00:05:26,051 --> 00:05:28,401 Honestly, they're my emotional support. 75 00:05:28,495 --> 00:05:32,331 They feel me when I'm sad. They cuddle me when I'm asleep. 76 00:05:32,482 --> 00:05:34,499 Like, I love them. They're my children. 77 00:05:34,651 --> 00:05:37,502 I just wouldn't know what I would do without them. 78 00:05:46,088 --> 00:05:48,588 I was a travel nurse assistant, 79 00:05:48,682 --> 00:05:50,740 Working in different states 80 00:05:50,759 --> 00:05:54,594 On covid crisis response assignments. 81 00:05:54,746 --> 00:05:57,597 When the pandemic began, 82 00:05:57,749 --> 00:05:59,583 I heard there was a job opportunity 83 00:05:59,601 --> 00:06:01,935 For first responders, to, you know, take care of 84 00:06:02,029 --> 00:06:05,012 The patients who are suffering from covid. 85 00:06:05,107 --> 00:06:06,656 So I took it and ran with it. 86 00:06:08,443 --> 00:06:09,701 I did really want to be a nurse 87 00:06:09,928 --> 00:06:12,929 Because my grandmother suffered from cancer. 88 00:06:13,022 --> 00:06:15,022 So we had nurses coming to the house, 89 00:06:15,042 --> 00:06:16,708 Helping her, and I was like, 90 00:06:16,935 --> 00:06:18,377 I wish I could have been the one that helped my grandma, 91 00:06:18,604 --> 00:06:19,711 So it's like I want to help other people. 92 00:06:21,440 --> 00:06:23,106 I can't work as a nurse assistant anymore 93 00:06:23,199 --> 00:06:24,774 Because I can't pass a background check 94 00:06:24,868 --> 00:06:26,218 Because I've been accused of this crime. 95 00:06:28,113 --> 00:06:30,872 If this case doesn't get resolved by this year, 96 00:06:30,966 --> 00:06:32,949 I lose my license. 97 00:06:33,042 --> 00:06:35,727 That's honestly the most devastating thing. 98 00:06:37,456 --> 00:06:40,214 My life does feel like it's on hold. 99 00:06:40,308 --> 00:06:41,733 I really do want it to be over. 100 00:06:50,986 --> 00:06:53,227 Burke: The prosecutor is painting this picture of taiz 101 00:06:53,247 --> 00:06:55,472 As someone who's committed this horrible crime. 102 00:06:55,565 --> 00:06:56,806 Hey, taiz. 103 00:06:56,825 --> 00:06:57,974 -Hi. How are you? -Good, how are you doing? 104 00:06:57,993 --> 00:06:59,233 Why don't you come on back? 105 00:06:59,253 --> 00:07:01,086 But she's saying that she wasn't even there. 106 00:07:01,237 --> 00:07:03,505 So I'd like to sit down with her and hear her side of the story. 107 00:07:06,818 --> 00:07:09,911 What we're looking at is that you're charged with aggravated burglary, 108 00:07:09,930 --> 00:07:13,006 Which is a legal term for a home invasion. 109 00:07:13,158 --> 00:07:15,917 The prosecution is alleging that you and another person 110 00:07:15,936 --> 00:07:19,253 Smashed through the rear sliding glass door of the home, 111 00:07:19,347 --> 00:07:21,181 And beat the child's mother 112 00:07:21,333 --> 00:07:22,732 And grandmother in front of this child. 113 00:07:24,611 --> 00:07:26,945 Why don't you tell me what you were doing christmas night? 114 00:07:27,172 --> 00:07:28,763 That night, you know, it was christmas day. 115 00:07:28,857 --> 00:07:31,007 I was with my family spending time 116 00:07:31,026 --> 00:07:32,934 Before I leave out of town. 117 00:07:33,028 --> 00:07:34,453 And when did you leave? 118 00:07:34,680 --> 00:07:38,123 So, I actually had to leave later on that night, 119 00:07:38,350 --> 00:07:40,684 Around like 9:00 or 10:00, to hit the road 120 00:07:40,777 --> 00:07:43,378 To go to phoenix on my nursing assignment. 121 00:07:55,550 --> 00:07:57,717 Before you left, did you ever leave your mom's house? 122 00:07:57,811 --> 00:07:59,311 No, not that I recall. 123 00:07:59,462 --> 00:08:00,812 Honestly, no. 124 00:08:00,964 --> 00:08:03,315 And you had family members with you the whole night? 125 00:08:03,466 --> 00:08:04,799 Yeah. Like I said, it was christmas. 126 00:08:04,893 --> 00:08:05,984 My whole family was there. 127 00:08:08,230 --> 00:08:09,488 The state is going to argue 128 00:08:09,715 --> 00:08:11,898 That you were one of the perpetrators 129 00:08:11,992 --> 00:08:14,659 And that you were put up to this by the child's father. 130 00:08:16,722 --> 00:08:18,404 Tell me a little bit about your relationship 131 00:08:18,499 --> 00:08:19,814 With the child's father. 132 00:08:19,908 --> 00:08:24,577 We became friends in, like, June 2019. 133 00:08:24,671 --> 00:08:26,746 We were inseparable, you know, we did everything together. 134 00:08:26,898 --> 00:08:29,749 We lived together, worked together. 135 00:08:29,901 --> 00:08:32,511 I knew his family, he knew my family, I knew his son. 136 00:08:32,738 --> 00:08:35,922 His son was around once a week on wednesdays. 137 00:08:36,074 --> 00:08:37,832 Yeah. We were just close. 138 00:08:37,926 --> 00:08:39,017 Burke: But no romantic involvement? 139 00:08:39,244 --> 00:08:41,578 No, no, we were completely platonic. 140 00:08:41,671 --> 00:08:43,580 So, what about the child's mother? 141 00:08:43,673 --> 00:08:45,006 Cruz: I've only ever met her one time 142 00:08:45,100 --> 00:08:46,173 When she dropped her son off 143 00:08:46,268 --> 00:08:48,527 At my house to be with his dad. 144 00:08:48,678 --> 00:08:52,438 I just don't think she liked that he had female friends 145 00:08:52,533 --> 00:08:55,775 Or a female friend who was his close friend. 146 00:08:55,927 --> 00:08:59,095 What's your understanding of the whole custody situation? 147 00:08:59,114 --> 00:09:00,688 From what I know, 148 00:09:00,707 --> 00:09:03,524 It was christmas and he was supposed to get his son. 149 00:09:03,618 --> 00:09:06,269 And his baby mom was keeping the baby away from him. 150 00:09:06,362 --> 00:09:08,605 I know they did get into an argument. 151 00:09:08,698 --> 00:09:11,365 But I don't know what occurred after that. 152 00:09:11,385 --> 00:09:14,294 I really, honestly, didn't have a clue what was going on 153 00:09:14,388 --> 00:09:16,221 Until I got arrested. 154 00:09:23,063 --> 00:09:24,896 I was, um, in phoenix. 155 00:09:25,048 --> 00:09:26,731 I was working out there in the hospital. 156 00:09:26,883 --> 00:09:29,459 And I was driving to work. 157 00:09:29,477 --> 00:09:32,312 And I actually got hit by a semi-truck. 158 00:09:32,406 --> 00:09:33,655 So my car was totaled. 159 00:09:46,978 --> 00:09:50,071 The responding officer was actually going to drop me off. 160 00:09:50,090 --> 00:09:53,666 And then over the intercom, I heard them say 161 00:09:53,760 --> 00:09:54,593 That I had a warrant. 162 00:10:07,332 --> 00:10:10,333 I was just in so much confusion and shock. 163 00:10:10,426 --> 00:10:12,018 I was completely by myself. 164 00:10:12,112 --> 00:10:13,837 I was scared. 165 00:10:13,930 --> 00:10:16,114 I know I didn't want to go to jail. 166 00:10:16,341 --> 00:10:19,008 It was just like one of the most traumatic experiences. 167 00:10:19,027 --> 00:10:21,786 On top of being hit by an 18-wheeler. 168 00:10:24,349 --> 00:10:26,291 Burke: It's important that you understand 169 00:10:26,518 --> 00:10:29,461 The possibility of prison time in this case is very real. 170 00:10:29,688 --> 00:10:32,372 Aggravated burglary is a first-degree felony. 171 00:10:32,466 --> 00:10:35,208 So that is the most serious offense level short of murder. 172 00:10:35,360 --> 00:10:37,618 So you're facing anywhere 173 00:10:37,638 --> 00:10:39,804 From three up to 11 years in prison. 174 00:10:42,050 --> 00:10:43,141 It's a lot of emotions. 175 00:10:43,292 --> 00:10:44,550 It's a lot to wrap my head around. 176 00:10:44,703 --> 00:10:46,978 The only thing I can do is be positive. 177 00:10:49,557 --> 00:10:52,208 Burke: This is a case where there's no physical evidence. 178 00:10:52,227 --> 00:10:54,152 We are starting off with taiz 179 00:10:54,379 --> 00:10:56,713 Having an alibi in the form of family members 180 00:10:56,731 --> 00:10:58,490 Who are going to testify 181 00:10:58,717 --> 00:11:01,326 That she was with them on christmas evening. 182 00:11:01,553 --> 00:11:03,495 So we have to take a very critical look 183 00:11:03,722 --> 00:11:06,313 At the eyewitness testimony against her 184 00:11:06,333 --> 00:11:09,392 And look at reasons why they would be placing her there 185 00:11:09,411 --> 00:11:10,669 When she says that she wasn't there. 186 00:11:17,326 --> 00:11:19,085 Hey, meis, I got this bodycam footage. 187 00:11:19,179 --> 00:11:20,420 You wanna have a look? 188 00:11:20,514 --> 00:11:21,346 Yeah, let's do it. 189 00:11:27,187 --> 00:11:28,928 Some of the only evidence in this case 190 00:11:29,080 --> 00:11:30,522 Is two alleged victims 191 00:11:30,749 --> 00:11:33,507 Identifying taiz cruz as being the perpetrator 192 00:11:33,601 --> 00:11:35,676 Of this home invasion. 193 00:11:35,770 --> 00:11:37,770 It's certainly a concern 194 00:11:37,864 --> 00:11:40,347 Whenever you have a serious allegation like this, 195 00:11:40,442 --> 00:11:41,941 And people that are very adamant 196 00:11:42,093 --> 00:11:43,868 That it's your client that did this. 197 00:12:05,617 --> 00:12:06,349 Officer: All right. 198 00:12:42,337 --> 00:12:45,913 That's not great, that she identifies taiz immediately 199 00:12:45,932 --> 00:12:47,748 When the cops get there. 200 00:12:47,768 --> 00:12:50,510 I think it's gonna be clear that maybe mom and grandma 201 00:12:50,662 --> 00:12:53,346 Thought it was taiz from the very beginning, 202 00:12:53,498 --> 00:12:55,014 And in that sense, they have been consistent, 203 00:12:55,166 --> 00:12:56,590 So that's something we'll have to address 204 00:12:56,684 --> 00:12:58,351 With the jury for sure. 205 00:12:58,503 --> 00:13:01,428 However, mom is saying, "I know her voice," 206 00:13:01,523 --> 00:13:05,283 And grandma keeps chiming in, "no, you saw her, you saw her." 207 00:13:05,434 --> 00:13:07,619 Meis: Yeah, if you saw her face, you wouldn't say, 208 00:13:07,770 --> 00:13:09,512 "I recognize that bitch's voice." 209 00:13:09,531 --> 00:13:11,014 -Right. -You would say, 210 00:13:11,107 --> 00:13:12,957 "I recognize that bitch's face." 211 00:13:13,109 --> 00:13:15,518 I don't think mom saw anyone. 212 00:13:15,537 --> 00:13:17,278 I don't think she saw a mask come off. 213 00:13:17,297 --> 00:13:19,280 I think grandma keeps adding that and reminding her. 214 00:13:19,299 --> 00:13:20,632 -That's interesting. -Meis: Uh-huh. 215 00:13:22,544 --> 00:13:25,303 Burke: The whole case is based on an identification, 216 00:13:25,530 --> 00:13:27,788 From the alleged victims in this case. 217 00:13:27,808 --> 00:13:29,549 It's gonna be important for me 218 00:13:29,701 --> 00:13:32,368 To make sure that taiz's alibi is airtight, 219 00:13:32,387 --> 00:13:34,387 Because if it's compromised in any way, 220 00:13:34,481 --> 00:13:36,648 That could be enough for a jury to find her guilty. 221 00:14:05,753 --> 00:14:08,254 Burke: I'm listening to betzy's interview with the detective. 222 00:14:08,348 --> 00:14:11,516 It's problematic because there's a potential hole 223 00:14:11,667 --> 00:14:13,017 In taiz's alibi here. 224 00:14:21,862 --> 00:14:25,512 The detective asks if at any time taiz had left, 225 00:14:25,532 --> 00:14:29,367 And betzy says she may have left to go to the store. 226 00:14:29,518 --> 00:14:31,944 He asks, well, "how long was she gone for?" 227 00:14:32,038 --> 00:14:33,371 "I don't know." 228 00:14:33,598 --> 00:14:35,373 When did she leave? She doesn't recall. 229 00:14:36,451 --> 00:14:37,950 The prosecutor's gonna say 230 00:14:38,103 --> 00:14:39,544 If she had time to go the store, 231 00:14:39,771 --> 00:14:41,546 She had time to commit this home invasion. 232 00:14:41,697 --> 00:14:42,547 That's a huge problem. 233 00:14:45,868 --> 00:14:48,202 So, I need to retrace the path 234 00:14:48,221 --> 00:14:50,037 That taiz would have had to have taken 235 00:14:50,131 --> 00:14:51,848 To have done the home invasion. 236 00:15:00,901 --> 00:15:04,310 The first location is taiz's mom's house. 237 00:15:04,404 --> 00:15:05,904 Automated voice: Your destination is on the left. 238 00:15:07,148 --> 00:15:09,556 This is where I would want 239 00:15:09,576 --> 00:15:12,076 To start the clock for our trip over to the crime scene. 240 00:15:18,476 --> 00:15:21,085 Getting a feel for where the locations are, 241 00:15:21,237 --> 00:15:22,979 Where things were alleged to have occurred 242 00:15:23,072 --> 00:15:25,757 I think it can be very useful. 243 00:15:25,908 --> 00:15:28,426 The more you immerse yourself in the case, the better. 244 00:15:31,005 --> 00:15:32,488 Automated voice: In 600 feet, 245 00:15:32,581 --> 00:15:35,934 Your destination will be on the left. 246 00:15:36,085 --> 00:15:39,103 Burke: So we've arrived at the neighborhood of the crime scene. 247 00:15:48,356 --> 00:15:51,098 It looks like the whole trip would have taken about an hour, 248 00:15:51,192 --> 00:15:52,766 Just the drive time, 249 00:15:52,786 --> 00:15:55,845 Not counting doing a home invasion. 250 00:15:55,863 --> 00:15:59,031 I need to talk to taiz's mom to see if she remembers 251 00:15:59,125 --> 00:16:02,368 How long it might have taken taiz to go to the store. 252 00:16:02,520 --> 00:16:03,686 I'm hoping to be able to show 253 00:16:03,705 --> 00:16:05,112 That there was just no feasible way 254 00:16:05,131 --> 00:16:07,465 For taiz to have participated in this home invasion. 255 00:16:22,631 --> 00:16:27,301 Cruz: Today, I'm having my parents over for dinner. 256 00:16:27,395 --> 00:16:30,488 My family and my siblings are first-generation americans, 257 00:16:30,639 --> 00:16:31,823 So I always want to make them proud. 258 00:16:33,067 --> 00:16:34,826 I don't want to have them think 259 00:16:35,053 --> 00:16:37,887 I could've did something so terrible, 260 00:16:37,980 --> 00:16:39,739 And I don't think they deserve 261 00:16:39,833 --> 00:16:42,667 The burden of my troubles or my obstacles. 262 00:16:51,511 --> 00:16:52,802 Hey, come in. 263 00:16:54,239 --> 00:16:55,013 (kissing) 264 00:16:56,591 --> 00:16:57,640 (chuckles softly) 265 00:16:59,077 --> 00:17:00,184 Like the sausages you put in there. 266 00:17:02,580 --> 00:17:06,006 Whereas now, you can't even continue your school, right? 267 00:17:06,100 --> 00:17:08,359 No. 'cause I have an open case. 268 00:17:09,437 --> 00:17:10,936 I can't do anything. 269 00:17:11,031 --> 00:17:13,013 That's the hard part. 270 00:17:13,033 --> 00:17:16,350 You not being able to continue where you were heading. 271 00:17:16,369 --> 00:17:18,519 Hopefully, after all of this is done, 272 00:17:18,538 --> 00:17:22,373 I'll be able to go back to traveling. 273 00:17:22,600 --> 00:17:24,542 -Betzy: Going back to school. -Yeah. 274 00:17:26,028 --> 00:17:28,046 How can somebody's life change 275 00:17:29,607 --> 00:17:33,885 For "he said, she said." 276 00:17:34,036 --> 00:17:35,778 She needs to get that through her head, 277 00:17:35,797 --> 00:17:37,555 That her mom and dad are the only ones... 278 00:17:41,061 --> 00:17:43,619 We're only ones there for her, no matter what. 279 00:17:43,638 --> 00:17:46,305 (kisses) see you guys later. 280 00:17:46,457 --> 00:17:48,900 She had so many dreams. Now everything's on hold. 281 00:17:52,072 --> 00:17:53,404 She's changed. 282 00:17:54,240 --> 00:17:55,573 A lot. 283 00:17:56,634 --> 00:17:57,742 I need my baby back. 284 00:18:11,332 --> 00:18:14,667 Burke: I'm getting ready to meet with betzy, taiz's mom. 285 00:18:14,819 --> 00:18:16,502 There's some questions I need to ask her 286 00:18:16,596 --> 00:18:18,554 About some of the statements she made to the detective. 287 00:18:25,254 --> 00:18:26,996 -Betzy, how are you doing? -Good. 288 00:18:27,014 --> 00:18:28,922 Okay, good. I'm planning on calling you 289 00:18:28,942 --> 00:18:31,425 As an alibi witness for taiz. 290 00:18:31,444 --> 00:18:34,612 At some point, you gave a statement to the detective. 291 00:18:34,763 --> 00:18:36,263 His question to you was, 292 00:18:36,282 --> 00:18:38,616 Was there any time that taiz wasn't there? 293 00:18:38,843 --> 00:18:40,934 You said maybe to go to the store. 294 00:18:40,954 --> 00:18:42,269 And then you also said 295 00:18:42,288 --> 00:18:44,029 That you didn't know what time she'd left, 296 00:18:44,124 --> 00:18:46,515 What time she'd came back, and how long she was gone. 297 00:18:46,534 --> 00:18:49,185 That's going to be very important for us to address, 298 00:18:49,278 --> 00:18:52,613 Because I'm fully expecting the prosecutor 299 00:18:52,707 --> 00:18:56,801 To zero in on that as being a big hole in taiz's alibi. 300 00:18:57,028 --> 00:18:59,137 Just tell me what you recall or what you know 301 00:18:59,288 --> 00:19:00,954 About what happened 302 00:19:01,048 --> 00:19:03,474 At that point when you believed taiz had left for the store. 303 00:19:03,626 --> 00:19:05,292 I was looking for her 304 00:19:05,311 --> 00:19:07,370 At one point and I couldn't find her, 305 00:19:07,388 --> 00:19:10,314 So I thought she had stepped out to the store. 306 00:19:10,466 --> 00:19:11,649 Do you recall what time? 307 00:19:11,800 --> 00:19:14,210 -I don't recall the time. -Okay. 308 00:19:14,228 --> 00:19:16,654 Later on, I spoke to my son and he said in the moment 309 00:19:16,805 --> 00:19:19,490 That she stepped out anywhere that they were outside smoking. 310 00:19:21,386 --> 00:19:22,976 In your interview with the detective, 311 00:19:23,070 --> 00:19:25,237 You said that you thought she had stepped out for the store 312 00:19:25,331 --> 00:19:27,223 But you don't believe that's the case anymore? 313 00:19:27,241 --> 00:19:29,816 Correct. She didn't go nowhere. 314 00:19:29,836 --> 00:19:31,652 Burke: Okay. How long was she gone for? 315 00:19:31,671 --> 00:19:33,412 About 15, 20 minutes. 316 00:19:33,564 --> 00:19:35,006 -Burke: How do you know that? -My son told me. 317 00:19:44,684 --> 00:19:47,000 We'll get to work and we'll stay in contact with you. 318 00:19:47,020 --> 00:19:49,428 -Okay. Thank you. -Burke: All right. 319 00:19:49,522 --> 00:19:52,915 All alibis from family members are gonna be suspect 320 00:19:53,008 --> 00:19:55,860 Because they have a built-in bias for their family member. 321 00:19:57,680 --> 00:19:59,846 This case comes down to witness testimony. 322 00:19:59,941 --> 00:20:01,590 It's family versus family. 323 00:20:01,684 --> 00:20:03,426 The alleged victim's family 324 00:20:03,444 --> 00:20:05,261 Saying that taiz was one of the people 325 00:20:05,279 --> 00:20:06,779 That invaded their home, 326 00:20:06,873 --> 00:20:08,597 Versus taiz's family, 327 00:20:08,616 --> 00:20:11,042 Who says that taiz was at home with them. 328 00:20:11,193 --> 00:20:12,543 It all comes down to which family 329 00:20:12,770 --> 00:20:14,378 The jury finds to be most credible. 330 00:20:25,225 --> 00:20:27,391 Burke: Trial is right around the corner. 331 00:20:27,543 --> 00:20:29,894 So, we're right now, uh, 332 00:20:30,045 --> 00:20:32,879 Getting ready to do a focus group. 333 00:20:32,974 --> 00:20:36,216 The value of having a focus group is to get some handle on, 334 00:20:36,236 --> 00:20:38,069 Does she stand a good chance at trial? 335 00:20:48,248 --> 00:20:51,898 My expectation would be that this experience 336 00:20:51,993 --> 00:20:55,478 Is going to make what a trial will be like real for taiz. 337 00:20:55,496 --> 00:20:57,313 I think that's going to be 338 00:20:57,331 --> 00:20:58,756 Something that should weigh heavily on her. 339 00:21:04,580 --> 00:21:06,822 This case is about terror, 340 00:21:06,841 --> 00:21:10,250 The terror that a family suffered on christmas evening 341 00:21:10,270 --> 00:21:13,437 At the hands of the defendant, in this case, taiz cruz. 342 00:21:15,500 --> 00:21:18,442 Cruz forcibly entered this occupied home 343 00:21:18,669 --> 00:21:20,111 For the purpose of committing an assault. 344 00:21:22,282 --> 00:21:24,782 The alleged victims in this case are absolutely certain 345 00:21:24,933 --> 00:21:27,451 That it was taiz cruz that perpetrated this home invasion. 346 00:21:29,271 --> 00:21:32,031 The toddler recognized miss cruz's voice 347 00:21:32,125 --> 00:21:36,794 And he speaks her name in the midst of this attack. 348 00:21:38,614 --> 00:21:41,799 When the detective in this case gave miss cruz 349 00:21:41,950 --> 00:21:44,543 A chance to clear her name 350 00:21:44,637 --> 00:21:48,789 By submitting her phone for forensic analysis, 351 00:21:48,808 --> 00:21:50,099 She declined to do so. 352 00:21:52,386 --> 00:21:54,979 Miss cruz has family members 353 00:21:55,206 --> 00:21:57,481 Presenting themselves as her alibis. 354 00:21:57,708 --> 00:21:59,708 These are people that are all biased, 355 00:21:59,727 --> 00:22:02,445 Trying to protect her from the consequences of her actions. 356 00:22:04,549 --> 00:22:06,657 You will find that the defendant, taiz cruz, 357 00:22:06,809 --> 00:22:08,734 Is guilty of aggravated burglary. 358 00:22:08,828 --> 00:22:09,785 Thank you. 359 00:22:14,058 --> 00:22:15,649 There's no physical evidence 360 00:22:15,668 --> 00:22:18,318 Linking the defendant to the scene. 361 00:22:18,338 --> 00:22:21,080 Additionally, the defendant had an alibi, 362 00:22:21,174 --> 00:22:23,990 She was at her mother's home from christmas eve 363 00:22:24,085 --> 00:22:26,735 Until christmas day. 364 00:22:26,829 --> 00:22:28,995 She had plans to leave town that night, 365 00:22:29,090 --> 00:22:30,756 To start a new job. 366 00:22:30,908 --> 00:22:34,410 So, the defendant drops all of that promptly 367 00:22:34,428 --> 00:22:37,003 To say, "yes, I'll break into the mother's house. 368 00:22:37,023 --> 00:22:39,190 "I'll drop everything I have going for me." 369 00:22:39,417 --> 00:22:42,360 Just ask yourself if that make sense. 370 00:22:42,587 --> 00:22:45,196 The prosecution has the burden to prove this case 371 00:22:45,347 --> 00:22:46,922 Beyond a reasonable doubt, 372 00:22:47,015 --> 00:22:49,274 And if you have any doubt at all, 373 00:22:49,427 --> 00:22:52,495 You must return a verdict of not guilty. Thank you. 374 00:22:56,209 --> 00:22:59,192 Those are the facts that the jury will hear. 375 00:22:59,286 --> 00:23:02,605 Let's proceed on and start getting some of your thoughts. 376 00:23:02,623 --> 00:23:05,007 Why didn't she turn over her cell phone over to the police? 377 00:23:17,730 --> 00:23:20,289 How many people blame the defendant 378 00:23:20,382 --> 00:23:22,124 For not producing that information? 379 00:23:22,217 --> 00:23:24,050 Woman 1: I don't know if I blame her, 380 00:23:24,070 --> 00:23:26,237 But an innocent person 381 00:23:26,464 --> 00:23:28,406 Is willing to prove that they're innocent 382 00:23:28,557 --> 00:23:30,056 By giving their phone. 383 00:23:30,151 --> 00:23:34,078 What I make up is that she wouldn't give up her phone 384 00:23:34,229 --> 00:23:35,704 'cause she didn't want to incriminate herself. 385 00:23:37,992 --> 00:23:42,494 The identification the mother was able to make, 386 00:23:42,647 --> 00:23:45,423 She said, "I recognize that bitch's voice," 387 00:23:45,650 --> 00:23:48,092 Yet she also claims she saw her face. 388 00:23:48,319 --> 00:23:49,835 The first thing I would've told the police 389 00:23:49,929 --> 00:23:52,337 Was the ski mask came off and I saw the lady. 390 00:23:52,490 --> 00:23:54,339 That would be, to me, the most important thing 391 00:23:54,492 --> 00:23:56,249 That I would want to communicate. 392 00:23:56,343 --> 00:23:57,726 (woman 2 speaking) 393 00:24:02,349 --> 00:24:05,517 I would like to hear some background on the credibility 394 00:24:05,670 --> 00:24:07,093 Of the defendant herself. 395 00:24:07,113 --> 00:24:11,023 Has she had a previous history of this sort of activity? 396 00:24:11,175 --> 00:24:13,008 She doesn't have a record. Is that important? 397 00:24:13,027 --> 00:24:14,510 Man: Yes. Woman: Yeah. 398 00:24:14,603 --> 00:24:16,269 She doesn't have any record, 399 00:24:16,289 --> 00:24:19,181 And nobody has established that she has a violent pattern. 400 00:24:19,274 --> 00:24:20,916 Are you gonna go assault somebody? 401 00:24:23,445 --> 00:24:24,945 What's the strongest evidence 402 00:24:24,964 --> 00:24:27,690 That she was, in fact, in that house? 403 00:24:27,783 --> 00:24:29,950 All: The little boy. Man: Yeah. 404 00:24:29,969 --> 00:24:31,135 Woman: Called her by her name. 405 00:24:38,961 --> 00:24:41,479 There's a credibility issue on both sides... The mother... 406 00:24:41,630 --> 00:24:42,888 Cruz: It was eye-opening, 407 00:24:43,040 --> 00:24:44,815 Having people who don't know you judge you. 408 00:24:46,134 --> 00:24:48,393 It was really, not upsetting, 409 00:24:48,546 --> 00:24:50,821 But a little uneasy feeling, a little bit. 410 00:24:52,992 --> 00:24:54,808 Burke: The mother and grandmother are claiming 411 00:24:54,902 --> 00:24:58,904 That this toddler said taiz's name and identified her. 412 00:24:59,056 --> 00:25:02,074 It's very important to hear that the focus group considered that 413 00:25:02,168 --> 00:25:04,168 To be the strongest piece of evidence against her. 414 00:25:06,655 --> 00:25:09,064 Obviously, a toddler is not going to be able 415 00:25:09,083 --> 00:25:10,916 To get up on the witness stand. 416 00:25:11,010 --> 00:25:12,584 Because of their age, they're considered 417 00:25:12,737 --> 00:25:15,328 To be incompetent as a witness, 418 00:25:15,348 --> 00:25:19,332 So we want the challenge the admissibility of that evidence. 419 00:25:19,352 --> 00:25:23,003 But also, the fact that taiz was unwilling 420 00:25:23,022 --> 00:25:25,764 To give her phone to law enforcement. 421 00:25:25,858 --> 00:25:28,083 In reality, her whole life is on her cell phone 422 00:25:28,102 --> 00:25:29,693 And as her attorney, it would have been a mistake 423 00:25:29,920 --> 00:25:31,511 For me to advise her to turn that over 424 00:25:31,605 --> 00:25:33,255 Without a warrant. 425 00:25:33,274 --> 00:25:35,032 She has a right to privacy, 426 00:25:35,183 --> 00:25:37,943 Even if she's been accused of a heinous crime. 427 00:25:38,037 --> 00:25:40,262 Are we all understanding what we're going to vote on? 428 00:25:40,281 --> 00:25:41,539 -Mm-hmm. -Yeah. 429 00:25:51,125 --> 00:25:53,342 All right, john, I'm going to turn it over to you for a little bit. 430 00:25:55,129 --> 00:25:55,886 (camillus speaking) 431 00:26:32,758 --> 00:26:33,757 Shroyer: No hands. 432 00:26:34,835 --> 00:26:35,926 (camillus speaking) 433 00:26:40,266 --> 00:26:42,266 Man: I think out of the scenario that we heard, 434 00:26:42,493 --> 00:26:45,436 She's the most likely person to have done it. 435 00:26:45,587 --> 00:26:47,938 But just because she's the most likely person to have done it 436 00:26:48,165 --> 00:26:50,332 Doesn't mean she's the person that did it. 437 00:26:50,425 --> 00:26:51,834 Woman: I totally agree with you. 438 00:26:51,852 --> 00:26:53,836 I would not say that she did it 439 00:26:53,929 --> 00:26:56,447 Because reasonable doubt is still there. 440 00:27:00,119 --> 00:27:01,619 Burke: None of them were willing to say 441 00:27:01,846 --> 00:27:03,603 That they believed the prosecutor 442 00:27:03,697 --> 00:27:07,015 Would be able to prove her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 443 00:27:07,034 --> 00:27:08,775 However, there was some suspicion 444 00:27:08,794 --> 00:27:10,110 That she was the most likely person 445 00:27:10,204 --> 00:27:11,629 To have committed this offence. 446 00:27:22,457 --> 00:27:24,216 Cruz: Hearing the mock jury say 447 00:27:24,368 --> 00:27:27,311 That there wasn't enough evidence to convict me, 448 00:27:28,706 --> 00:27:30,797 That gave me, kind of, hope 449 00:27:30,816 --> 00:27:33,817 That the real jury will pick the right verdict. 450 00:27:35,821 --> 00:27:38,563 I'm prepared to risk all consequences 451 00:27:38,658 --> 00:27:41,383 And go to trial. 452 00:27:41,402 --> 00:27:43,402 I don't have anything to hide or prove to anyone 453 00:27:43,554 --> 00:27:44,887 Other than that I didn't do this. 454 00:27:44,905 --> 00:27:46,722 Come here. 455 00:27:46,740 --> 00:27:50,626 I hope that the jury sees that I'm innocent. 456 00:28:00,846 --> 00:28:03,572 Burke: Today, we have a hearing on our motion 457 00:28:03,590 --> 00:28:07,351 To exclude evidence in front of the jury. 458 00:28:07,502 --> 00:28:09,687 Here we go. Go on, grab some copies. 459 00:28:16,362 --> 00:28:19,087 These two pieces of evidence was very powerful 460 00:28:19,106 --> 00:28:21,757 As far as jury focus group was concerned. 461 00:28:21,775 --> 00:28:24,017 The first is, we want to exclude 462 00:28:24,111 --> 00:28:27,187 Comment from either the witnesses or the prosecutor 463 00:28:27,206 --> 00:28:29,522 In reference to this toddler supposedly 464 00:28:29,542 --> 00:28:32,768 Identifying taiz at the scene. 465 00:28:32,786 --> 00:28:35,045 It really wouldn't be fair to taiz 466 00:28:35,197 --> 00:28:36,939 To let an otherwise 467 00:28:36,957 --> 00:28:39,508 Inadmissible identification come into evidence. 468 00:28:40,778 --> 00:28:43,203 The other issue is my advice 469 00:28:43,297 --> 00:28:47,207 That she should not let this detective go through her phone. 470 00:28:47,226 --> 00:28:48,967 The concern now is that the prosecutor 471 00:28:49,119 --> 00:28:50,710 Is going to point to that 472 00:28:50,804 --> 00:28:52,563 As evidence that she somehow has something to hide. 473 00:28:58,796 --> 00:29:00,904 Today is the day for the judge to decide, 474 00:29:01,056 --> 00:29:04,241 Is he gonna allow the jury to hear about these issues? 475 00:29:30,603 --> 00:29:32,177 I was a little disappointed 476 00:29:32,329 --> 00:29:34,087 With the judge's ruling on the cell phone. 477 00:29:34,106 --> 00:29:36,014 I felt like the law was on our side, 478 00:29:36,108 --> 00:29:38,517 But if I had to pick one of the issues to win on, 479 00:29:38,611 --> 00:29:40,927 We won on the one that I thought was most important. 480 00:29:41,021 --> 00:29:42,237 That's a good day. 481 00:29:55,702 --> 00:29:57,536 So, I kind of just, like, 482 00:29:57,688 --> 00:30:01,523 Jokingly threw out an offer and he kind of said, 483 00:30:01,542 --> 00:30:03,467 "give me something and I'll take it to the family." 484 00:30:18,484 --> 00:30:19,799 Something is causing him 485 00:30:19,819 --> 00:30:21,893 To reevaluate his position on the case. 486 00:30:22,046 --> 00:30:24,046 Maybe he's having some issues 487 00:30:24,064 --> 00:30:27,807 With his witnesses not wanting to come to court, 488 00:30:27,901 --> 00:30:30,327 But whatever the reason is, I think we got to talk to taiz, 489 00:30:30,554 --> 00:30:31,995 Because that's a hard thing to say no to, 490 00:30:32,222 --> 00:30:33,497 Considering she's looking at 11 years. 491 00:30:34,333 --> 00:30:35,740 The question is, 492 00:30:35,893 --> 00:30:37,726 Is taiz going to take that offer seriously? 493 00:30:37,819 --> 00:30:39,169 I'm not so sure that she will. 494 00:30:56,597 --> 00:30:59,356 Burke: Now that the prosecutor is making what I would consider 495 00:30:59,507 --> 00:31:02,842 To be a very substantial plea as a resolution to the case, 496 00:31:02,862 --> 00:31:06,088 Today, I'm going to talk to taiz and her mom 497 00:31:06,106 --> 00:31:07,698 About what's been offered. 498 00:31:09,034 --> 00:31:10,108 Good to see you. 499 00:31:10,260 --> 00:31:12,018 And that she really understands 500 00:31:12,037 --> 00:31:14,663 The risks of whatever decision she makes. 501 00:31:17,025 --> 00:31:20,210 So right now, you're faced with a first-degree felony 502 00:31:20,362 --> 00:31:24,456 That carries up to 11 years in prison. 503 00:31:24,608 --> 00:31:27,718 The prosecutor right now is agreeing to a reduction 504 00:31:27,869 --> 00:31:30,053 In the charge that you are facing, 505 00:31:30,205 --> 00:31:33,448 Of a fourth-degree felony, or an f4, 506 00:31:33,467 --> 00:31:35,708 Which carries only 18 months 507 00:31:35,728 --> 00:31:37,853 Total possible jail or prison time. 508 00:31:45,129 --> 00:31:47,220 It would also be a non-violent felony. 509 00:31:47,239 --> 00:31:49,314 So, it's something that doesn't have to follow you 510 00:31:49,408 --> 00:31:51,983 For the rest of your life as a criminal record. 511 00:31:52,136 --> 00:31:53,744 There is one exception to that. 512 00:31:53,895 --> 00:31:56,062 Certain types of work, uh, 513 00:31:56,081 --> 00:31:57,730 Including your medical field, 514 00:31:57,750 --> 00:32:01,251 They can still pull that up as part of a background check. 515 00:32:07,593 --> 00:32:08,759 So what do you think? 516 00:32:09,428 --> 00:32:11,836 Well... 517 00:32:11,989 --> 00:32:14,932 I still want to go to trial, to be honest. 518 00:32:15,083 --> 00:32:17,083 If there's a possibility 519 00:32:17,102 --> 00:32:20,328 That I can walk away the same person I was 520 00:32:20,347 --> 00:32:23,440 Before this happened, then I want to take that. 521 00:32:23,667 --> 00:32:25,591 I feel like if I don't take the chance, 522 00:32:25,611 --> 00:32:27,018 Then I'll never know. 523 00:32:27,112 --> 00:32:31,431 I don't want to look back at this moment and wonder, 524 00:32:31,450 --> 00:32:34,100 Did I do enough to try to persuade you 525 00:32:34,194 --> 00:32:36,119 To take the opportunity 526 00:32:36,346 --> 00:32:38,455 To limit the worst that can happen to you. 527 00:32:39,349 --> 00:32:40,457 It's your decision. 528 00:32:40,608 --> 00:32:42,775 I'm here to support you, 100 percent. 529 00:32:42,869 --> 00:32:44,352 Just remember, 11 years 530 00:32:44,371 --> 00:32:46,354 -Is a long, long time. -I feel like, I don't think... 531 00:32:46,373 --> 00:32:49,466 I mean, I could think all day about the options, 532 00:32:49,693 --> 00:32:53,378 But honestly, like, I got tunnel vision. 533 00:32:53,472 --> 00:32:56,047 I'd encourage you to continue to think about it, 534 00:32:56,141 --> 00:32:56,974 Talk with your family. 535 00:32:58,460 --> 00:33:00,368 -Thank you. -You're welcome. 536 00:33:00,387 --> 00:33:02,370 Betzy: It's the rest of her life 537 00:33:02,389 --> 00:33:05,207 But she also has to think of everyone else in her life. 538 00:33:05,225 --> 00:33:06,725 I wish, um, 539 00:33:06,819 --> 00:33:09,653 She would take the time and think about everything. 540 00:33:11,490 --> 00:33:13,490 I'm definitely gonna weigh out my options, 541 00:33:13,641 --> 00:33:15,383 Talk about it with my family members, 542 00:33:15,477 --> 00:33:16,901 You know, the people closest to me. 543 00:33:16,996 --> 00:33:21,072 But I'm pretty straightforward with my decision 544 00:33:21,225 --> 00:33:23,125 And I'm sure we are going to go to trial. 545 00:33:34,588 --> 00:33:37,180 I've been thinking a lot about the plea bargain. 546 00:33:44,023 --> 00:33:46,690 My parents, they had their differences 547 00:33:46,841 --> 00:33:48,525 On what I should do. 548 00:33:48,676 --> 00:33:52,270 My father, he believed that I stood a greater chance 549 00:33:52,422 --> 00:33:54,031 Going to trial, you know, 550 00:33:54,182 --> 00:33:56,658 And fighting my chances to win. 551 00:33:57,928 --> 00:33:59,944 If I do go to trial, 552 00:34:00,097 --> 00:34:03,431 One of the pros is I do have the possibility 553 00:34:03,450 --> 00:34:06,376 Of not being convicted and go back to nursing. 554 00:34:08,105 --> 00:34:10,955 I feel like the case is still on my side. 555 00:34:11,050 --> 00:34:15,052 But my mom is more convinced towards the plea. 556 00:34:30,294 --> 00:34:32,069 There is still a possibility, 557 00:34:32,220 --> 00:34:35,297 Putting my life in 12 people's hands, 558 00:34:35,315 --> 00:34:38,742 I could get convicted and serve time in prison 559 00:34:38,893 --> 00:34:41,894 And then always have this charge on my record 560 00:34:41,988 --> 00:34:44,639 For the rest of my life. 561 00:34:44,658 --> 00:34:46,975 That's all I've been thinking about, honestly. 562 00:34:46,993 --> 00:34:48,752 It's been living in my head rent-free. 563 00:35:00,265 --> 00:35:03,082 Burke: I don't know if taiz will reconsider or not. 564 00:35:03,176 --> 00:35:04,492 She's been very adamant 565 00:35:04,511 --> 00:35:07,437 That she wants to go forward with her trial. 566 00:35:07,664 --> 00:35:12,258 I do question whether she's ever fully grasped 567 00:35:12,352 --> 00:35:15,928 The gravity of the possible consequences that she is facing. 568 00:35:15,948 --> 00:35:20,175 For a 23-year-old facing 10 or more years in prison, 569 00:35:20,193 --> 00:35:22,619 That's some of the most important years of her life 570 00:35:22,846 --> 00:35:24,454 That she potentially would be giving away. 571 00:35:26,032 --> 00:35:27,940 If you play russian roulette, 572 00:35:27,960 --> 00:35:29,684 You've got a good chance of winning, 573 00:35:29,703 --> 00:35:31,795 But if you lose, it's major consequences. 574 00:35:40,213 --> 00:35:42,097 Look, sit. Sit. 575 00:35:50,983 --> 00:35:54,651 Cruz: I really sat and I weighed out my options 576 00:35:54,802 --> 00:35:59,230 And thought about the possibility of either outcome. 577 00:35:59,324 --> 00:36:01,283 I'm feeling pretty confident in my decision. 578 00:36:05,238 --> 00:36:06,830 (cell phone ringing) 579 00:36:11,077 --> 00:36:12,243 Adam burke speaking. 580 00:36:12,396 --> 00:36:13,962 Hey, adam. How are you doing? 581 00:36:15,007 --> 00:36:17,323 (burke speaking) 582 00:36:17,417 --> 00:36:21,069 So I called you because I just kind of wanted to talk to you 583 00:36:21,087 --> 00:36:24,848 About, um, what I'm leaning towards as far as plea. 584 00:36:25,075 --> 00:36:26,574 Okay. 585 00:36:26,593 --> 00:36:28,852 (cruz speaking) 586 00:36:29,003 --> 00:36:31,980 I'm kind of leaning towards taking it. 587 00:36:35,510 --> 00:36:36,318 (burke speaking) 588 00:36:40,273 --> 00:36:41,364 (cruz speaking) 589 00:36:43,869 --> 00:36:46,686 I'd rather it continue to temporary, um, 590 00:36:46,705 --> 00:36:48,997 Put a hold on my life than permanently. 591 00:36:55,881 --> 00:36:56,713 (burke speaking) 592 00:36:58,291 --> 00:36:59,441 I think you are saving yourself 593 00:36:59,459 --> 00:37:00,675 From the worst that can happen here. 594 00:37:08,301 --> 00:37:09,726 Is that what you want to do? 595 00:37:12,547 --> 00:37:14,472 Yeah, I'm thinking so. 596 00:37:14,566 --> 00:37:15,398 (burke speaking) 597 00:37:16,977 --> 00:37:18,735 All right, thank you, I'll talk to you soon. 598 00:37:18,962 --> 00:37:20,570 -(burke speaking) -all right, bye-bye. 599 00:37:26,803 --> 00:37:30,989 I still could face up to 18 months in jail. 600 00:37:31,083 --> 00:37:35,085 But 18 months is a lot less than 11 years. 601 00:37:37,405 --> 00:37:40,999 There's a possibility that I could go to back to nursing. 602 00:37:41,151 --> 00:37:43,593 And that's a risk I'm willing to take. 603 00:37:45,597 --> 00:37:47,822 I'm not going to say I took the plea 604 00:37:47,915 --> 00:37:50,100 To claim that I'm guilty or not. 605 00:37:50,251 --> 00:37:53,845 It just was the best option for me at this moment. 606 00:37:53,939 --> 00:37:56,756 I'd rather let my career be taken away from me 607 00:37:56,850 --> 00:37:58,233 Temporarily than forever. 608 00:38:18,297 --> 00:38:21,189 Burke: I'm a little surprised taiz changed her mind. 609 00:38:21,282 --> 00:38:23,858 But nothing is ever certain until, um, 610 00:38:23,951 --> 00:38:26,377 We actually have the plea done in court. 611 00:38:26,530 --> 00:38:28,621 And so, there is always a possibility 612 00:38:28,715 --> 00:38:31,457 That she changes her mind again. 613 00:38:31,476 --> 00:38:33,125 I'm hopeful that that won't happen 614 00:38:33,145 --> 00:38:35,053 Just because I do think she is making the right decision here, 615 00:38:35,205 --> 00:38:36,313 But you just never know. 616 00:38:39,651 --> 00:38:42,544 Judge: State of ohio v. Taiz cruz. 617 00:38:42,562 --> 00:38:45,471 21cr1448. 618 00:38:45,490 --> 00:38:48,825 It appears we have the defendant and all counsel present. 619 00:38:48,976 --> 00:38:50,810 Give me the facts, would you, counsel? 620 00:38:50,829 --> 00:38:52,554 Your honor, this occurred during the evening 621 00:38:52,572 --> 00:38:55,481 Of December 25th, 2020. 622 00:38:55,500 --> 00:38:57,500 Two unknown people forced open the door 623 00:38:57,652 --> 00:39:00,562 Of the bedroom where the victims were hiding and assaulted them. 624 00:39:00,580 --> 00:39:02,672 Miss cruz was later arrested 625 00:39:02,824 --> 00:39:04,749 And cited with no further incident. 626 00:39:04,901 --> 00:39:06,918 Judge: Okay. 627 00:39:07,012 --> 00:39:09,571 Miss cruz, you are pleading guilty this morning 628 00:39:09,589 --> 00:39:11,997 Rather than pressing ahead with your jury trial, 629 00:39:12,017 --> 00:39:14,909 And your guilty plea is to trespass in a habitation. 630 00:39:15,002 --> 00:39:17,020 The penalty for that could be 631 00:39:17,247 --> 00:39:18,855 As much as 18 months in state prison. 632 00:39:20,584 --> 00:39:24,085 Is that what you understand your plea is today? 633 00:39:24,104 --> 00:39:26,345 Yes, sir. 634 00:39:26,365 --> 00:39:28,681 Judge: Miss cruz, you have about five more minutes 635 00:39:28,775 --> 00:39:30,033 In which you can tell me, 636 00:39:30,260 --> 00:39:31,517 "judge, forget it, I want to have a trial, 637 00:39:31,611 --> 00:39:32,660 "I don't want to plead guilty." 638 00:39:35,207 --> 00:39:37,932 This plea form gives up your right to have a trial 639 00:39:37,951 --> 00:39:40,502 Either with just me or with a jury of 12 people. 640 00:39:41,380 --> 00:39:42,379 Are you satisfied? 641 00:39:46,051 --> 00:39:47,942 Yes, sir. 642 00:39:48,035 --> 00:39:50,111 I'll accept your change of plea, then. 643 00:39:50,130 --> 00:39:51,446 I'm satisfied this morning, 644 00:39:51,539 --> 00:39:52,947 Miss cruz is proceeding knowingly, 645 00:39:53,040 --> 00:39:54,540 Intelligently and voluntarily. 646 00:39:54,559 --> 00:39:56,059 And I find her guilty of the f4. 647 00:39:57,637 --> 00:39:59,229 Bonds continued pending sentencing. 648 00:39:59,380 --> 00:40:00,688 All right, thank you, all. 649 00:40:11,576 --> 00:40:15,153 Cruz: It was sad hearing the judge say I was guilty, 650 00:40:15,305 --> 00:40:18,397 Considering I was in the medical field. 651 00:40:18,491 --> 00:40:21,584 I hope it does affect his sentencing in a positive light. 652 00:40:22,754 --> 00:40:24,570 I'm just hoping I just don't 653 00:40:24,589 --> 00:40:26,756 Get a sentencing that leaves me in jail. 654 00:40:40,330 --> 00:40:41,938 The fewer piercings, the better. 655 00:40:44,109 --> 00:40:45,608 These are not coming out. These I have to keep in. 656 00:40:47,003 --> 00:40:48,278 Burke: You ready to go do this? 657 00:41:10,469 --> 00:41:12,543 Hi, betzy. How are you doing? 658 00:41:12,637 --> 00:41:14,545 They've got her in a holding cell right now. 659 00:41:14,698 --> 00:41:16,639 And then she's going to be taken over to the jail 660 00:41:16,866 --> 00:41:19,033 Over at jackson pike, the workhouse. 661 00:41:19,126 --> 00:41:20,535 Were you able to talk to her? 662 00:41:20,628 --> 00:41:22,036 Yeah, I was able to talk to her. 663 00:41:22,055 --> 00:41:23,480 She seems like she's holding up all right, you know. 664 00:41:25,892 --> 00:41:27,542 The best thing for taiz to do now 665 00:41:27,560 --> 00:41:29,152 Is to get done with her days in jail, 666 00:41:29,303 --> 00:41:31,154 Get done with probation. 667 00:41:31,381 --> 00:41:33,448 And then restart her career and her life. 668 00:41:36,995 --> 00:41:38,953 I'm feeling destroyed right now. 669 00:41:41,333 --> 00:41:43,791 What parent wants their kids to be locked up? 670 00:41:46,988 --> 00:41:48,487 Cruz: It's really important for me 671 00:41:48,507 --> 00:41:50,006 Not to be a felon the rest of my life. 672 00:41:51,158 --> 00:41:52,917 It definitely makes me want 673 00:41:53,069 --> 00:41:55,828 To second-guess everything that I do in life 674 00:41:55,847 --> 00:41:58,239 Because I'd hate to have to go 675 00:41:58,332 --> 00:41:59,849 Through anything like this again.