Daphne, Sallie, and Darlene

I have decided to write this article about Sallie Collins

A motive:  I have seen and heard some deaf people was questioning themselves and wondering if Sallie are involved or have anything with the case of Daphne Wright. Some people believe that Sallie is involved with the murder case. Sure, you may have question in your mind, “Is Sallie involved?”, “Does Sallie have something with this murder?”, “Possible beyond doubt or suspicion on Sallie?”, and many questions in your mind.  I understand some deaf people had set their mind that Sallie are involved or have something do with the murder, period without a discussion. I would like to emphasize that I’m not trying to criticize your opinion or theories, or correct some of you, I’m not asking you to change your mind by force like by twist your arm, you have a choice, and I believe you would give yourself in some of consideration.

What the point for me to present this article? My answer is to clarify things with you about Sallie, Daphne, and Darlene case. This would help you understand why Sallie has nothing do with murder and any involvement.  I’m sure in your mind thinking, “Who are you?” I do expect this and allow me introduce myself; I’m a very good friend of Sallie Collins. I have been strongly stood by Sallie and I believe whole story what she had told me. I don’t have any doubt in Sallie, none, not even a tiny doubt like a mustard seed.  I would like you to allow me to give you an introduction about a basic background of Sallie Collins. Some of you already knew Sallie personally; some of you don’t know who she was. I just wanted to emphasize you the whole story and a timeline with a key of facts and point of view. I hope you would be willing to understand this better without some rumors which would be exaggerating. Sure, we wants the whole truth without “fill-in” the blanks, don’t we? This article may be long to read but it is worth to read. 

Sallie is a person who loves everyone and has a big heart. She always shows her smile, it is like a “never-ending” smile. Sallie is lovable person and don’t like to see anyone with a sad face or problems. Sallie has an ability to cheer people up, she love to social people and she even told me, “I would hate to see a person with sad face, it would break my heart”. Sallie doesn’t know how to hurt people, even she don’t know how to kill a fly or ant. If you wonder if she has temper; I have never see her lose her temper, get angry or mad. She doesn’t like argument while angry, she likes to sit and discuss in gentle way to solve problems. Does this sound like a person have a capable to kill or involve with murder of Darlene? Does this sound like Sallie has a lot of anger like Daphne does? Think about this… I’m sure some of you know your friends who have this similar kind personality like Sallie have. Sallie has an excellent personality, a wonderful person, and she is a person you would want be friend with.  The answer is: Nope, Sallie is not that kind person to do these. She never hurt anyone, even she never hurt me. Sure, we do have flaws in our lives and we can’t expect ourselves to be perfect or judge anyone else. Don’t judge a person by a book cover. This saying are most common and many of us heard of it.

Sallie and Daphne had a relationship for 4 ½ years and the relationship was very rocky. Daphne had abused Sallie in many forms of abuse. Sallie finally has her courage to get out of relationship in Fall of 2005. She moved to her own apartment. Daphne reacts: Angry and wants Sallie back but Sallie don’t want anything from Daphne anymore. Daphne wanted Sallie all to herself; she think she still own Sallie. How can Sallie involve with this and why do you think Sallie moved out? Think about that. While Sallie lives alone in the apartment, inside of Daphne’s mind, she thinks that Sallie and Daphne are still in relationship, but never existed. Why? Because Sallie left her because of the abusive relationship and due to the unhappiness in the relationship with her.
 

Sallie have seen Darlene at deaf club but never been introduce each others. Darlene tend to go the “deaf apartment” where Sallie lives, she plays card with friends in the community room.  Sallie finally introduced by her friend to Darlene in the community room which was in late September 2005.  Darlene and Sallie become a good friends, Their friendship are strictly platonic, nothing romantically. Sure, Sallie can make new friends, can she? Is there any law about against this? I don’t think so. Darlene have been visited Sallie almost everyday. Is it something wrong with the picture? No! I’m sure some of you have a best friend or a friend who visits you often? Even almost everyday? Sure all of us do! I must emphasize you that Darlene was not homosexual; Darlene was heterosexual and her preference in relationship is with man.  Darlene may look like a tomboy; does that mean she is presumed lesbian? No. I’m sure you have some friends who are tomboy and straight not lesbian. We can’t judge a person by a look.
 

Daphne did not leave Sallie alone; she have been stalking, bother, and stop by her place which Sallie asked her to not bother her. Daphne refused; like I just said earlier that she still think both are in relationship which doesn’t exist. Daphne learned that Sallie has this new friend, Darlene. Daphne got upset with Darlene because she visits Sallie. Daphne thought Darlene was trying to destroy the relationship with Sallie. Sallie has preached Daphne that they are just friends. Daphne didn’t listen to Sallie,  thinking Sallie is not telling the truth. Daphne become jealous and keeps on bothering Sallie and every time Daphne arrived, Darlene had to leave. Why? Daphne doesn’t want Darlene near Sallie!
 

January 27, 2006: Daphne got in argument with Darlene, yelling at Darlene by saying “why you are destroying my relationship with Sallie?!” Sallie stopped Daphne and told her that we (Darlene and Sallie) are just friends and there is no relationship existed. Next day, Daphne wanted to solve problem with Darlene so they did. In Daphne’s mind….She’s up to something! Darlene have been got nasty e-mails from Daphne telling Darlene to stay away from Sallie, deaf apartment, gave a name-calling on Darlene. Daphne told Sallie that she will meet Darlene on Wednesday, February 1st, 2006, but she never told Sallie where and the time they plan to meet.
 

February 1st, 2006, this is important for you to read carefully. Sallie was at work and her shift was 10 a.m. to 6:30pm and she typically arrives home little after 7pm. Sallie have no idea what happened on that day. She was puzzled when she didn’t see Darlene online. Darlene’s friends was wondering where she was because it was not normal for Darlene’s routine. Sallie did not talk with Daphne on this day. It never happened. Daphne suddenly asked Sallie on February 2nd, 2006  if she can visit Sallie for the weekend. Sallie has no idea what Daphne was doing and what she is up to. Daphne already murdered Darlene and left her in basement for two days – this was while Sallie at work. How can she have time to get off from work and being an accomplice? It’s impossible!
 

February 3, 2006, again, this is important for you to read carefully because I’m going to feature on what Daphne were doing and where Sallie was. Sallie went to work in her normal routine, she work that day from 10 a.m. to 6:30pm. While Sallie was at work, Daphne went to Ace Hardware store at 9:30 a.m. (There was 2 witness who have already testified at trial said that Daphne was there that day alone and bought chainsaw). Daphne bought a chainsaw and she returned back to the same store at 1:15pm to buy chainsaw oil. These same two witnesses testified that Daphne come back to same store alone. Now, you see the time frame? It’s impossible for Sallie to be involved. Why? Sallie’s work has camera and time card. The detective had checked her time frame and camera. That tells them that Sallie was at work and never left work until 6:30 p.m. Sallie even passed the polygraph test.
 

When Sallie arrives at Daphne’s house little after 7 p.m. and discovered that Daphne was not home – Odd? It was not normal for Daphne. She waited in the porch for an hour then she wrote a note at 8 p.m. and let her know that she was there, and she stated that she’ll be back. As when Sallie arrived home and the neighbors and her friends have been waiting for her to arrive. They told Sallie that Darlene was missing. Look at this! Sallie has no idea! Sallie went to Darlene’s apartment and was interviewed by the police. After that, she went back to Daphne’s house but she is still not home. She returned back home to feed her cat and made herself something to eat. She returned back to Daphne’s place almost 10 p.m. Daphne finally was home, Sallie asked Daphne, “Where have you been?” Daphne told Sallie a strange story “I was at Super America gas station, struggle with a clerk about my lost wallet”. Daphne left house at 6 p.m. and was gone for 4 hours. Look at the time… Daphne left at 6 p.m.  Sallie didn’t leave work until 6:30 p.m. Daphne’s roommate testified at trial said that Sallie sat in porch for an hour, and said Daphne was gone for 4 hours which she arrived at 10:00 p.m. Daphne also told her roommate about this so-called lost wallet story.
 

While the weekend of February 3rd-5th. Daphne was behaved very oddly and she shows nervous – She was smoking every minute; wipe her sweaty hands on her pants. Sallie was puzzled and asked her what the matter and takes it easy. Of course, Daphne stated nothing wrong. Sallie was puzzled and wondering what is going on. She acted out when Sallie mentioned that Darlene was missing. Why Daphne act out? What does that mean? Of course, Sallie has no idea! Sallie’s neighbor happened to stop by to visit, the neighbor decided to talk about Darlene; when Daphne saw the neighbor talk about Darlene, Daphne told the person, “Stop! Stop! I don’t want to hear about Darlene! Enough!” Daphne wiped her both arms and shudder it off. What does this means to you? Think about that…
 

The last time Sallie saw Daphne on February 5th, as Sallie dropped Daphne off home and went to super bowl at deaf club. That was the last time she saw Daphne on February 5th. She found out that Daphne murdered Darlene, Sallie got so upset and heart-broken. She sobbed hard and was embraced with her friends. Sallie was in miserable moment because she lost her good friend, Darlene. How does that means to you? Sallie involved? There is no way for Sallie to be involved or have something about this murder. Most of you already know the stories mostly so I wouldn’t repeat in this article; and what you read on newspaper.
 

What about DNA? They found DNA of Darlene and Daphne. There was a DNA on sweatshirt and which matched to Daphne’s and the DNA of Darlene was on it and on many evidences and they also include Daphne’s DNA on those evidences. There is no DNA match on Sallie Collins. What does that mean? She was not there when it happened! She was nowhere near Daphne’s house and proves that Sallie was not involved on February 1st and 3rd. No DNA on Daphne’s roommate. Think about this… How can you think Sallie is involved or have something do with murder without her DNA nearby or around? Daphne’s alibi is very bad and the detectives already knew Sallie have alibi and was strong and airtight alibi.
 

I was at pre-trial and court for the trial. I even watched Sallie testified; her testimony was the same as she told her friends and me. There are no changes or anything adds which may seem off the point. I have seen what was going on in the trial. Sure, Defense would try to point at Sallie but they have a weak defense because prosecutor has too many evidence presented at court. All evidences and the connection was all point at Daphne, not Sallie, not Daphne’s roommate, or anyone else. It was just Daphne who did this horrific crime.

If Sallie is actually involved or have done something with this murder, she would be not around today. She will be in jail by right now and how come Sallie is still around? Because she is innocent and has nothing do with murder. It was Daphne who done this all to herself!

I would like to express my appreciation of you who read this article and I hope this will put some consideration. Some of you may disagree or don’t think some of them are some of the fact, that would be fine with me. Only thing I know is. God know the truth and I trust Sallie completely that she is 110% percent innocent. I hope this will help you understand the better picture and see why Sallie has nothing do with this case. I believe in every bottom of your heart would understand this better. I would like to ask you to let other people know the facts. This is much better than the rumors or mixed stories.

There are no lesbian or love triangle between Daphne, Sallie, and Darlene because it never exists.

Anonymous

Commentary: If you want to leave questions, please let me know and I’ll pass along the questions to Anonymous.   You can leave the questions here or contact me privately at Mishkazena@aol.com

Wright Trial: In the last several days, I was told one interpreter used SEE twice on different dates. Two couldn’t understand the interpreter at all and were forced to read the live text transcription to follow the trial. I was startled and dismayed to hear about the SEE interpreter.  SEE is completely gibberish to me, so no way can I make sense what a SEE interpreter says.  This brings up a question:  As a strong ASL user, can Daphne understand the SEE interpreter? With her weak English, can she follow the live text transcription?  Today the court resume, discussing motions.  Check Chuck Baldwin’s blog for hourly updates: http://blogs.argusleadermedia.com/voices/  He reported seeing Daphne looking agitated and asking her lawyer questions this morning.  MZ

P.S. I suspended some of the comments left by the writer due to some contradictions.  Not only did I follow up and straighten it with the writer, I also spoke with  two people very close to Darlene who vouched for the writer. MZ

 Update:  Kelo’s article on Daphne’s penalty trial:  http://www.keloland.com/NewsDetail6162.cfm?ID=0,56309

Argus Leader: http://www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070416/NEWS/70416023

email contact: Mishkazena@aol.com

copyright mishkazena (TM) 2007

61 Responses to “Daphne, Sallie, and Darlene”

  1. anonymous Says:

    Just like you don’t know what Daphne is capable of, you don’t know what Sallie is capable of. She lied on the stand and was caught repeatedly lying by the lawyers. When she was done, Darlene’s family didn’t even want her sitting with them. Haven’t you ever watched the news and saw a neighbor or friend say “they seemed like such a nice person, I didn’t think they could do this?” Let the lawyers do their job and you stick to being a spectator.

  2. Anonymous Says:

    Thanks for the post about Sallie. I have a question… Who was Daphne’s roommate? I think I read somewhere that she was (is) in a wheelchair so she couldn’t have pushed Darlene down the stairs – something to that effect. Very little was said about Daphne’s roommate.

  3. justmedeaf Says:

    It is very strange crime because most of partners have an affair or friends.one of them kill thier partners not friends,Why didnot Daphne kill Sallie instead of Darlene?.

  4. KBJensen Says:

    the abuser wants to get rid of those who are close to their former lover… Remember Daphne was extremely of Sallie’s friendship with Darlene..

  5. Cy Says:

    MZ
    You gave me a start – thought you wrote the article until I noticed the grammar was not yours. Realized it was someone else.

    So, what you think, MZ? Is this author naive? Would be nice if more people come forward as character witnesses for Sallie. This author left a lot holes – time gaps at which time Sallie could have been involved. Her being at work did not exnorate her. That is essential is if the medical examiner can pinpoint the time of death and from there, the detectives would investigate whereabouts of Daphne and Sallie. If Sallie was called to the stand at the trial, it seems to me there was a reason to. The detectives found something on Sallie.

    Seems to me it could be both ways – Sallie was a victim of circumstance or an accomplice.

    What bothers me – if Sallie is a lesbian, why would Darlene, supposedly a hetrosexual, visit her daily? Why would Darlene want to be involved in a frienship with a lesbian on a daily basis? To me, this does not seem logical. Quite possibly, Darlene was a closet lesbian and Daphne knew it. Possibly Daphne knew and was enraged that Darlene and Sallie were developing a relationship, taking Sallie away from Daphne.

    There are a lot of people, even in their 40s, who are still in the closet. They continue to struggle with their sexual identity and/or are very anxious about reactions by others – especially a gentle personality like Darlene’s. I’ve seen this happen.

    Bottom line – if my theory is right in that Sallie and Darlene were in early stages of a budding romance, then Daphne may have been enraged and wanted to take Darlene out of the picture by killing her. In her mind, if Darlene no longer existed, Sallie would come back to her. So, it may very well be that Sallie was a victim of the circumstances. What could Sallie possibly benefit from killing Darlene?

    Just a theory, folks.

  6. SChevy Says:

    At first I thought Darlene was not a hetrosexual, now it is a little puzzling to me. But if Wright killed someone who wanted to be friend with her ex, she must be very dangerous after all. A real maniac, boy!

  7. Casper Says:

    This is a very interesting article. I know Sallie has a lot of alibis or some type of evidence to support her innocent. The strange thing is that during and after the trial a lot of people such as lawyers, family and friends still think she had something to do with this reagardless of the alibis and the evidence that was presented? We’ll never know and just have to move on.

  8. Sioux Says:

    I know Sallie personality and Darlene’s friends plus her family.

    1. Darlene’s family accepts Sallie and believe that she has nothing to do with murder. Her mother told Sallie “Thank you” after her testimony.

    2. Darlene’s sister felt grateful that Sallie was being honest with what happened. Her sister believes that Daphne was one who did the whole things.

    3. I have a friend, includes me, saw Sallie around us on Feb. 1st and Feb 3rd, So that why we knows that she is not an accomplice.

    4. Sallie befriends with Darlene’s friends and her family.

    Most of Sioux Falls Deaf Community supports and on Sallie’s side.

    I think you should read Arugsleader and read the blog what happened at courtroom.

    Allow me give you the website: http://blogs.argusleadermedia.com/voices/category/daphne-wright-trial/

    You can read at the beginning from April 2 to the verdict.

    One of you said that there are some gap by author wrote. May I ask, what kind gaps, I’ll be thrilled to answer your questions.

    Could I give some few ideas: I would like to ask you to show some compassion on Darlene, look for justice to be served against Daphne! I support this author completely. :)

    By the way, I have some friends who is straight. Nothing wrong to be friend with a lesbian/straight.

    Do you have a frieds who are lesbian or gay or striaght? I’m sure some of you do.. Should we judge a person with their friendship by … They are dating or involve romantically? Those is reallly unnecessary.. We should be careful what we think.. My father used to said to me. “If you cant say something nice, better to say nothing”.

  9. Mishka Zena Says:

    Cy, I’ve corresponded with the anonymous writer few times via e mails and once through vp the last several days. She seems very sincere and doesn’t appear to be naive. I have no reason to doubt that she believes what she is saying.

    If the police suspected that Sallie had some involvement, they would have charged her, but they didn’t. What is more, the prosecutor used her to testify, so apparently the prosecutor felt she was innocent, too.

  10. Cy Says:

    MZ,

    I was not sure whom Sallie testified for – prosecution or defense.

    Like I said, it looked like Sallie was simply a victim of the circumstances where it made her look like an accomplice.

    Sioux,

    I have NOTHING against being friends with homosexuals. I roomed with one for two years at Gallaudet. I am friends with several and have a close friend who is one. That is not what I am talking about when I wrote to MZ….the author wrote that Darlene visited Sallie daily. Ask yourself if you are straight and go see a lesbian on a daily basis, for several hours, etc, as the author implied, what does this say to you?

    I have several gay friends and one close friend but I certainly don’t visit or talk to them daily. I would not even if I were single. I know most people don’t. For most people, going and seeing someone on a daily basis implies a deeper relationship than a simple friendship. Which was why I wondered if Darlene was a closet lesbian. She probably was not. I did not personally know Darlene.

    Lesbian or straight, Darlene was still Darlene – a sweet and kind hearted person. I am just saying sexual orientation does not make the person. It is how the person present her/himself to others that counts and Darlene, by all accounts, was a good and gentle person. She most definitely did not deserve to die.

    I am just saying there may be more to the whole thing than we know. My close friend did not come out until she was in well in her 30s. There may be things nobody knew about Darlene but this does not imply Darlene deserved to die. I am not saying that at all. It is often the case that we don’t know the whole picture.

    Like I said in my blog earlier, we all shouldn’t forget the victim, Darlene, and IAmMine suggested a blog memorial where her friends and family could come in and comment about her and I think that is a neat idea.

  11. justmedeaf Says:

    There is nothing wrong bewteen lesbain/straight as friends.I have few friends who are straight. that dont bother me.

  12. Sioux Says:

    Hi Cy

    I understand your point of view. We may have different thoughts in our minds.

    For examle:

    1. Person sees a lesbian/straight friends visit each others everyday may imply something, person can think.. “Maybe the straight person is closeted? or what is up with this picture?”

    2. Person sees a lesbian/straight friends visit each others everyday; the person would think it’s nothing wrong with the picture.

    Just one thing bothers me.. For number 1. example; couldn’t a person ask them (lesbian/straight friend who visits everyday or hang out often)? I don’t think it would be harmful to ask to see if the straight person is closeted or just general friends.

    Of course, we would have to remember we have different persecptives. I dont think it’s bothersome, other person thinks it’s bothersome. Who can agree? Sometimes our perspective could agree sometimes can’t. Most important: Respect each others :)

  13. Cy Says:

    Sioux

    Absolutely. I respect my gay friends. They are just normal people with different sexual orientation, that’s all.

    My perspective on this is mostly upon the normality in behaviors of most people.

    If Darlene was a hetro who simply enjoyed a close friendship with a lesbian, that was great. It says Darlene was open minded and open hearted.

    I can only assume Daphne saw things quite differently.

  14. Richard Roehm Says:

    It shows you never know when , where , and how a walking lesbian time bomb will go off.

    I got hit with one on April 2003.

    Didnt expect it.

  15. anonymous Says:

    “It shows you never know when , where , and how a walking lesbian time bomb will go off.

    I got hit with one on April 2003.

    Didnt expect it.”

    It shows you never know when, where, and how a typing male idiot will type. I got hit with one April 2007.

    I fully expected it.

  16. Nick Vera Says:

    Hi there!

    Thank you for conveying the information from your source in regarding the timeline of Daphne, Sallie, and Darlene. Perhaps, I must have missed the point how did Daphne kill Darlene at her home before she bought a chainsaw and oil. Any idea how did she do in the basement?

    I found the story that your friend shared the article which appears to be very scary situation.

    Nick

  17. Nick Vera Says:

    My apologies for not clarify prevously. The daily press from Deaf Queer News shared the news to our audience. I might missed the details how did Daphne kill her at her house before purchasing the chainsaw and cut her body parts.

  18. Sioux Says:

    Hi Cy:

    Ah I see as you mentioned “To most people, For most people, going and seeing someone on a daily basis implies a deeper relationship than a simple friendship”.

    Honest – I have heard of it before. That was very interesting view. To some people don’t think that way.

    Sure, not a simple friend but it can be different reason in the “relationship” meanings. It can be good friend, best friend, or anything.

    I understood why you was wondering if Darlene was in closet or not.

    I would like to let you know that Darlene and Sallie was a good friends and they just enjoy their company, just friends – not more than that. As what the author mentioned on the article.

    But… Is this our business? Sure, we may have wonders in our mind. Why should we bother to nosy in their or anyone else’s business? I’m not try to insult your comment but just my 2 cents comment to you.
    :)

  19. Michele Says:

    It is obvious that Daphne was grieving over her lover Sallie, she could not let Sallie go. Like an obsessed lover, Daphne kept after her.

    The papers say that Darlene was a Christian, I wonder if she talked to Sallie about Christianity and the gay life. Was Daphne feeling threatened that Sallie was following Darlene and Christianity like maybe going straight.

    It appears that Sallie must have someone with her, like first she was with Daphne and then she goes to Darlene. I wonder if Sallie is so afraid to be on her own? Just an observation that I have from reading your article.

    Thanks Anonyomous for sharing your story and if you want, you can answer my questions but that’s up to you. It helps us to get a clearer picture of what drove Daphne to murder Darlene.

  20. Michele Says:

    Elizabeth,

    As for the five interpreters, did they change interpreters everyday? Cuz that can be confusing. You said that Daphne looked agitated and tried to talk to her lawyers. This is interesting because for the last few weeks, she was passive and then all of suddenly she is feeling agiated. Is it because there is new interpreters today from last week?

  21. Mishka Zena Says:

    Reprinted with permission:

    Elizabeth,

    Same 5 interpreters all through the trial.

    Same 2 at the front of the courtroom.

    Same 2 at the defense table with Daphne.

    Same 1 in reserve, in case there was a deaf witness (that person stood in front of the witness to interpret).

    For most of the trial, Daphne sat with no expression, no emotion. A couple of times, she would sign or write questions/comments. A couple of times she seemed a little angry or agitated.

    Whatever caused her problems today, it wasn’t because there were new interpreters.

    (If I could sign, I’d be able to tell you.)

    Chuck

  22. Sioux Says:

    Michele:

    I’m glad you asked me the question. Daphne grieved over the broke up relationship with Sallie. I don’t think so – She got upset when Sallie moved out; she begged Sallie to stay but Sallie stand strong and told her it was over period. Daphne had been determined to do everything to get Sallie back to her. It’s almost like fatal attraction..

    Sallie is afraid to be on her own? No… She is not afraid to be on her own. She can handle if she have someone with her or not. I understand that you just made a observation. I am not trying to critize or change your observation. It’s good for you to ask me a question, that is good thing to do.

    I would like to let you know that Sallie does know about Jesus Christ, and she know the truth about Gay/Lesbian issue which He doesn’t approve the lifestyle. She have choice to make – She choice to remian lesbian. You, I, and everyone else cannot twist any lesbian/gays and Sallie to become straight. All we can do is pray for them, show the love that Jesus gave us. :)

    I wouldn’t be surprised if Darlene told Sallie about Christ and what God/Jesus said about homosexuals. I’m sure Darlene did, I would want to ask Darlene myself but I can’t ask her. We cant judge GLBT; don’t forgot.. God love everyone and GLBT too. :)

    Hope this will cover all your question. Hopefully this will be clear enough for you to see the picture.. I hope you can exposure to other people about the facts from the article.

  23. RLM Says:

    The remaining question about Sallie?

    Why in the world for Sallie to go to Daphene’s house which she have been physically, mentally and verbally abused by the very same abuser – Daphene?

    Your article kinda give me a second thoughts about the whole situation for every party involved.

    Are we becoming the armchair detective(s) or what? Aha!

    Robert L. Mason (RLM)

  24. Cy Says:

    SiouxBut… Is this our business? Sure, we may have wonders in our mind. Why should we bother to nosy in their or anyone else’s business? I’m not try to insult your comment but just my 2 cents comment to you.

    Of course it is none of our business, however, it could very well go to the motive on Daphne’s part which is why detectives investigate to get the most whole picture possible. It is apparent Daphne perceived Sallie and Darlene as having a romantic relationship which had led me to wonder if Daphne knew what the rest of us did not know about Darlene. Of course I can be wrong.

    Sioux, it seems to me you are upset about the implication that Darlene might be a closet gay. I get the impression that you feel it is a violation to her memory. If this is the case, then I sincerely apologize. This is not my intention. I am an analytical personality and I tend to see between the lines and beyond what is presented at face value. My husband often accuses me of doing this and I guess I am doing it again. Sorry if this annoys you.

  25. Cy Says:

    Michele,

    THANKS! Never thought about possiblity that Darlene, as a Christian, may have been seeing Sallie to share with her about Christianity and encouraging her to convert and live a life as a Christian. That makes a good reason why she went to see Sallie daily. It really fit with her personality much more than that she might be a closet gay. Thanks so much for throwing this in to give me another food for thought!

  26. CommonSense Says:

    It’s nice to see that someone is finally looking outside the box at possible alternatives. Whomever said that you’re playing armchair detectives, that much is true. No one truly knows what went one and all of the speculation and testimonials from friends and family won’t make the story any clearer. If anything, it’ll only make your idea of what you think happened more believable.

    The truth of the matter is we probably will never know exactly what went on and why.

    I’m sure Sallie is a nice person to some, just as Daphne was a nice person to some. All it really takes is one or two negative people to say otherwise to make you believe the words that they say.

    It’s really pointless for all of you to assume. You don’t really know what happened and no matter if Darlene is or was a lesbian, or if Daphne pissed off some person years ago – you were not there.

    At least you’re finally looking at this without blinders on.

  27. skeptic Says:

    It sounds like this writer was coached by Sallie. There is too much detailed information documented in the article, showing how much time had been spent on composing the article. For what purpose? It looks like the writer tried too hard to convince us Sallie is innocent and nice. It makes me suspicious about the real motivations of the author. MZ, do you know who the writer is?

  28. Mishka Zena Says:

    Skeptic, no, I don’t know the writer personally. However, I spoke with two people very close to Darlene, including a family member, and they vouched for the writer’s credibility. They both read the article and said the writer was telling the truth.

  29. Jean Boutcher Says:

    So unbelievabled and very ridiculous of the interpreter to use SEE! In Washington, DC’s court, they ask on the form: which sign system do deaf people prefer: PSE or ASL? Never have I seen “SEE” on the form. We live in the
    second millennium, not 3,000 years ago. Completely no senso comune. I cannot understand why the NAD has not intervened because NAD is an organisation that protects the rights of deaf people. We have Equal Rights Council in
    D.C. Apparently, in South Dakota there is none. Where is the SD Association of the Deaf?

  30. Michele Says:

    Thanks Elizabeth and Chuck for giving the answer to the interpreters!

    Chuck is really doing a good job keeping us informed and painting a picture of what is going on at the court.

    Thanks! :-)

  31. green eyed gypsey Says:

    I feel that Darlene has endured enough and being critical of her implied lifestyle is unneccessary. What I want to know is why the prossecusion didnt offer Daphne a plea bargin like taking the death penalty off the table. Don’t get me wrong I am in full favor of the death penalty however I didnt recall any offer to her.

  32. Mishka Zena Says:

    Nick, they don’t have concrete evidence that Daphne killed Darlene, just a lot of circumstantial evidence. How she died remains unsolved. It is either a blow on her head or suffocation/strangulation.

    Jean, it blew my mind out when I heard that from several Deaf spectators. :(

    Green, the prosecutor may feel the crime too heinous to offer a plea offer, especially when the evidence overwhelming points out Daphne’s guilt. Even though they don’t have the smoking evidence, i.e., the chainsaw

    Michele, yes, we are lucky Chuck is the blogger covering the trial! :)

  33. Michele Says:

    Green, maybe Daphne was very insistent on not telling a lot of things which resulted in frustrating the prosection/defense team, I believe if she cooperated with her defense team, telling everything from a to z, she probably would have gotten a better offer. That’s just my guess. If that is the case, why is Daphne not telling everything, is it because she cannot relate with interpreters or whatever like communication barrier.

  34. C Says:

    Jean, i’ve been to court in past and have asked for SEE interpeter. Why? because it’s legal stuff, puts me on an equal level playing field. ASL is easily misunderstood in court (terp misunderstands or mistranslate). I’m not taking any chances with them. I understand for many deaf who know nothing but ASL, they have no choice. Terp should use nothing but ASL with them. To be honest, I pity them. I’ve seen too many mistranslation. Terp say somthing that is not what ASL signing person meant. Just so you know, I’m third generation deaf.

  35. C Says:

    reading some of the comments by cy and Sioux. While I do think Daphene is guilty. However, just because someone has an alibi does not mean he/she is cleared. Many people have “conspired” and are a “party” to murders, even if they did not “partake”. Sally may have knew about it, maybe she didn’t. This is something we all probably will never know.

  36. SciFi Says:

    Someone posted something ahout Jesus Christ not approving the homosexual, that is BS. I do not look down at prostitutes because they saved many children from being ravished real often. The Holy Bible said lots of shameful things about whores and they should be stoned to death, that’s BS. I also disagree with the book about homosexuals. That is their business. Even these who commit adultery, that is their spouses’ business, not the Christians nor ours. It is not the Christians’ duty to look into other people’s bedroom to check if their sexual pleasure are approved. Christians, stop imagining what people do sexually that your minds and spirits become murky and ugly.

  37. Diane Says:

    Nothing to do with their race, lifestyle. and etc etc .. The bottom line is Daphne’s behavior is not acceptable. Everyone is unique and has their own preference. Wondering if if A BIG IF Daphne admits this (during or before trial) .. would she be sentenced to life? Just thought. Right now it is too late for Daphne .. she is at the edge. All up to the jurors to decide.

  38. Renee Says:

    Can’t anyone say anything about Daphne’s roommate, as I asked in the second commentary?

  39. Mishka Zena Says:

    That’s correct. Daphne’s roommate was severely injured by a car accident so she wasn’t mobile at that time

  40. Diane Says:

    Poor Daphne’s roommate/landlord .. dunno her name thou. She had no clue what’s going on in the basement of her OWN house. The woman does not have a sense of smell and she is disabled. She is unable to climb downstairs. Daphne knew and took advantage in using the basement. It is amazing the house hadn’t blown up while the landlord was in her house. Daphne tried to burn the body of Darlene with gasoline! Wondering how Darlene’s parents doing at this moment. Ummm…

  41. BJL Says:

    How do you try to burn a body? If she was gonna burn it she would have did it. They said it was gasoline in her hair but hair wasnt burned. hmm sounds like cover up to me. and the roommate isnt deaf she didnt hear what was going on in basement? hmm i dont believe it.

  42. Renee Says:

    Darlene’s bra was burnt and was passed around among the jurors.

  43. Renee Says:

    Also, Daphne told her roommate/landlord that she was “working” in the basement by changing the carpet and painting, etc. So that’s probably why the roommate/landlord didn’t bother to question all the noises in the basement…

  44. Diane Says:

    Landlord is Deaf … and she is so clueless about the basement issue. Poor her. She got a big fool!

  45. Dragonfly Says:

    #46
    Who told you that roommate/landlord is deaf? You are wrong about that one… She is hearing lady and disabled.

    By the way, I found this very odd about the roommate/landlord that she didnt hear anything in her OWN house and what was happened in her OWN basement. Even worst she didnt even suspect any kind of weird behavior or smell odd in her OWN house. She must be really DUMB! She is lucky that she is still ALIVE.

  46. Viola Says:

    The key to this case is racism. Daphne is black, period. That is really the entire accusation. It’s being assumed that because Daphne is black, she could lift and lug Darlene’s body around. Firstly, it was assumed that Daphne could take on Darlene alone. Darlene was huge and an extremely strong woman. Daphne is no little thing, but I doubt she has that kind of strength to do this alone. The NAD is not intervening and making sure communication is effective because Daphne is black. If Daphne were white, the case would be different. Daphne’s parents must be very uneducated and obviously don’t know how to help. Also, they seem to be socialized to accept things as they are and will hope that Daphne doesn’t get the death penalty without doing or saying anything themselves. Daphne may not have been trained to think and this crime requires thinking in sequence. Thinking is learned at home, not at deaf schools. Deaf schools basically only teach ASL and not much else. Deaf people that are missing home training have a difficult time understanding other Deaf adults, their motives and actions. Once a person is black and a crime is done in their vicinity, there aren’t any other accused persons. Case solved, right? Some people have no conscience and have a mental depravity that amuses them to falsely accuse a black person, even when they know who did what. Sallie isn’t being questioned enough about why she took herself to see Daphne and be with her if Daphne was so much bad news. I think Darlene wanted a relationship with Sallie, but turned her down because she didnt’ want the conflict with Daphne. No telling what goes on behind closed doors. How far was the relationship really? Did anyone ask Sallie if she was mad at both Darlene and Daphne? Did she want to hurt Darlene because of rejection and blame it on Daphne to hurt her too? What about that hearing woman? Who did she dislike enough to do that kind of harm? Straight women usually don’t have lesbians around them for long periods of time. Was she also a lesbian? Daphne was in Sallie’s home when Darlene left. Did Daphne then want to fight Sallie, so Sallie called the police? Daphne maybe had reason to think she was still in a relationship with Sallie. Didn’t Sallie continue to go to Daphne, still communicate with her, let Daphne into her home? Whether or not people want to admit what they can surely see, Darlene was also a lesbian and kept her physical appearance to that point, complete with a man’s job of laborer, driving a truck and wearing a man’s haircut. We have to accept it when people are gay, regardless of whether we believe it’s right or not. I think a mistrial should be declared and this case investigated further for the real facts. This is a very extreme crime and all those that participated in it should be held accountable.

  47. CommonSense Says:

    Viola,

    I appreciate your sentiments and the courage to think outside the box on this case. You are one of few to do so. That’s been my point of contention since this began – they singled out Daphne and left every one else alone. There are hundreds (literally) hundreds of untested evidence. Then there’s the evidence that was simply overlooked like a man’s DNA in the home which no one will explain.

    It’s amazing to me that people can overlook such a thing.

    I did want to point out something about my parents. They aren’t uneducated. What we are, is middle class without access to high priced lawyers. My sister deserved a better defense, but a lot of what is said and done rests on the Public Defender.

    We want the truth just as much as anyone else does, but as you so aptly pointed out … the real truth is being cleverly hidden. Take care.

  48. Dragonfly Says:

    Common sense:

    You re right about hundreds of untested evidence but…
    Why cant Daphne just admit and tell the story but she still havent told the truth. My guess: because she knew she did it.
    There are so many ways for Daphne to save herself but she decided to not to do that then it is not our problem.

  49. Viola Says:

    I’m not trying to insult your parents or you in any way. There is a great difference in the way the uneducated and educated deal with matters and it can get obvious. The responsibility can’t rest with the Public Defender. That’s your sister, not his. A motion for mistrial can be submitted to court. The PD is trying to be inept and incompetent and is not representing his client effectively. No further investigation was requested. From the PD’s statements, he is presenting the case as if Daphne were guilty. Without seeing all of the evidence, I couldn’t come to any conclusion as to Daphne’s guilt or her part in this crime. If you believe Daphne is innocent to some degree or if others were conspirators, then fight for a fair trial. Being middle class shouldn’t stop you from setting people straight at appropriate opportunity times. It is your responsibility more than anyone else’s. Daphne will die of this, one way or another, if she is sentenced. The number of people that believe the same lie doesn’t matter. Only the truth matters and you have to make it matter.

  50. Dragonfly Says:

    I second VIOLA’s comment on #51

    If I was in Daphne’s family’s shoes and I would find a way to get her a good lawyer who can save her from death penalty. I guess they are only thinking of themselves. Money shouldnt be an issue and the issue is to save her from worst conclusion. They should have shown Daphne how much they do care and love for her that they got her a good lawyer.

  51. CommonSense Says:

    Dragonfly: What you said made no sense. If you don’t have the money, you simply don’t have it. There IS a reason why the rich get off much easier than the regular citizens who have regular normal jobs.

    Viola: No offense to you, but you don’t know what my family has done in efforts to try and bring this to national attention to seek additional help. But, if you have at least $200,000 to spare when this goes up for appeal – please by all means send it to us. I’ll gladly give you the address and the name of a lawyer.

    Btw: the motion for mistrial prior to the beginning and end of this trial was dismissed. I appreciate the commentary, but again please don’t assume.

  52. Diane Says:

    Dragon … let’s find out if the landlord is Deaf or not. Sounds you are rooting for Daphne …. not Darlene. — Umm .. Circumstance evidences are so overwhelming. Daphne and her family are NOT rich compare to OJ or weathy people. Sad thou. RIP .. Darlene

  53. green eyed gypsey Says:

    Daphne’s color has nothing to do with her guilt in this case the color at hand is red and that is the color of Darlene’s blood that has been shed. She died a horrific death and justice will be served. If common sense was so concerned about her sister she would have been on the witness stand today pleaing for her sisters life to be spared instead of writing on this blog…. I know I would have been. Maybe she can get real and shed some light on what kind of childhood she had and if she is also using it as an excuse to butcher people.

  54. CommonSense Says:

    GreenEyed:

    Until you are in my situation with my exact circumstances don’t presume to tell me what you THINK you would, should or could do. Thank you.

    Mishka – thanks for the time on your blog. I appreciate it. My participation is done.

  55. mishkazena Says:

    Who knows why Daphne didn’t testify? She didn’t have good education and it seems her knowledge is very limited. Perhaps her lawyers feel she doesn’t have the linguistic ability to field off the prosecutor’s questions since CDIs aren’t provided. Or they may feel Wright will damage her defense if she is questioned

    It is extremely expensive to pay for lawyers. Many middle-class people mortgage their houses, etc to shoulder the legal expenses. Wright doesn’t work, so therefore she doesn’t have savings. Wright’s family may not be able to afford it, especially with her mother in her sixties and responsible for the care of three grandchildren.

  56. Viola Says:

    I know a request for a mistrial was already weakly submitted to the court. If there is cause for a mistrial, and I think there is, and the judge dismisses the request, then it doesn’t have to stop there.

    A lawyer should state what he/she will do in the legal matter before paying them any money. Lots of lawyers will only tell you the fee, but beware when they don’t go on to state what they can do. Taking your money may be the only thing they do.

    The prosecutors are responsible for putting a case together against a defendant. The statement of “facts” presented to the court comes from them. The prosecution can request to withdraw a case or request that additional defendants be added to a case.

    Keloland.com reported “Wright’s lawyer Jeff Larson spent more time, telling the jury:

    “I’ve been a criminal defense lawyer for 28 years. And this is the one moment in my professional life I have always feared. I’m used to arguing facts and law. I don’t know how to argue that locking somebody in a prison cell for the rest of their life with no possibility of parole is enough. That my client need not be killed at the hands of the state.”"

    This is sublime legalese. He’s not in fear of anything.

    $200,000 is a bit much for this trial. It’s not a reasonable fee unless a lawyer wants to work on this case for an entire year exclusively. And not any lawyer will do. A lawyer must be chosen that can handle the case properly and legally. For $200,000. the lawyer may be expecting to work at least 1,600 hours on the case. Higher fees may be for around 900 hours. Be sure to be aware of who can help you. Sometimes you will be in communication with people who can help you.

    I’m all for assisting in raising some funds to get a lawyer’s fee paid with a website and donation capability.

  57. green eyed gypsey Says:

    I have read the articles in the local Sioux Falls paper on how this trial has absorbed nearly the entire years budget for the public deffenders office with all of the accomidations it made to make sure that Daphne got a fair trail with translators and all of the equipment needed to ensure she understood everything that was going on…. Throughout the trial she didnt stop her interpretors to ask questions or indicate that she was confused…

  58. Diane Says:

    Judge Zell doesn’t even bother to check it out carefully .. mostly denied and dismissed – just to get over with it. The Prosecutor is racist as it was mentioned in Argusleader’s. Some jurors were sleepy and some yawned while listening to Daphne’s educational and psychological backgrounds. It is a good chance that she will get a death penalty. The defense team had done a poorly job — they would have checked out the Deaf networks. Or even none of them contact the defense team .. I think. My guess that this will hurt the Deaf defendants who are alleged or innocent out there. I am not rooting Daphne’s case but I am trying to make a point here. It can affect us and the Deaf community out there.

  59. Viola Says:

    Today we will find out what the jury has decided, how Daphne will be sentenced.

  60. Intrigued Says:

    I don’t know any of those people but I
    just saw the story on Oxygen. I have to
    say that through the whole story it never
    even entered my mind that Sallie was involved
    in any way shape or form. I am sure she feels
    guilty just because she was involved with
    both women and I am sure she feels a bit of
    responsibility EVEN THOUGH she is not at all
    responsible.

    I’m sure that even though she knew Daphne could
    be volitile, she NEVER imagined that she would
    “SNAP” and take it THAT far. I feel sympathy
    for all involved.

    I would really love to talk to Sallie.

  61. Anonymous Says:

    Forgive me for writing this now, many years later, but I just heard of this case for the first time. I was watching Forensic Files and it suprised me when I heard my city’s name involved in such a murder! I feel so horrible for Sallie, that must have been one of the toughest things to ever go through. I personally believe Sallie had nothing to do with this. People are going to assume things and believe what they want to believe I suppose, but in the end the police would have found out if Sallie was truely involved.

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