The case against Amanda Knox,
imprisoned in Italy for the death of her British roommate, is taking its toll
on the young American, her mother said today as the 23-year-old’s high-stakes
appeal of her murder conviction began in a Perugia courtroom.
Her daughter puts on a “brave
face” but is worried about her future, Edda Mellas said.
The appeals proceedings were
adjourned until 11 December after a 15-minute procedural hearing.
In a trial that’s drawn worldwide
attention, Knox, of Seattle, was convicted in December of murder and sexual
assault in the slaying of her roommate, Meredith Kercher, 21, whose half-naked
body, with stab wounds to the neck, was found in the house she shared with Knox.
The defense says the case is wearing
down Knox, who’s been behind bars since the 2007 killing when the women were
exchange students. Knox, convicted with two others, was sentenced to 26 years.
All three have maintained their innocence.
Mellas says she talks to her
daughter by phone in 10-minute calls.
“She always tries to put on a
brave face,” Mellas told “Today.” “We know this is just
horrible for her to be locked up for a crime she didn’t commit, and it is
taking its toll.
“I think you can see the fact
that she’s just down, she’s worried this is not going to be fixed,” Mellas
said. “I don’t know that I’d characterize her as depressed, but she is definitely
worried, and this is hard.”
The defense is seeking an
independent review of the forensic evidence and to introduce new witnesses.
The prosecution has also appealed, because its
demand for life in prison fell short.
“I don’t see it as an option,” her mother
said. “When you’re innocent, you appeal and you keep going until she’s
free.”
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