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Investigative Facts – AFI-LLC – August 2023                                       4 of 7

        homicide, when the facts in evidence are consistent with the elements to manslaughter. There is a domestic argument,
        which becomes heated and then becomes physical. A struggle ensues and a person reaches for a kitchen knife and stabs
        the other person, resulting in their death. What do the facts in evidence show? Were any facts and evidence not
        provided at trial? Was any evidence withheld by prosecution from discovery to defense? What are the comparative
        elements of both criminal acts? Was the act criminal, or justified as an element of affirmative defense?

        These are just a few of the questions the legal investigator – and perhaps a consulting expert – should pursue for the
        defense attorney and team. Of importance is identifying the event, the evidence, and how these unfold to tell the facts.

        These may also be important is negotiating a post-conviction Alford Plea – Nolo Contendere or No Contest. According to
        the Legal Dictionary (www.legaldictionary.net/alford-plea), an Alford Plea is, “An Alford plea is a plea that may be
        entered by a defendant who has been charged with a crime. In entering an Alford plea, the individual essentially enters a
        plea of guilty, while maintaining a claim of innocence. In such a case, the defendant is admitting that, whatever evidence
        the prosecution has is likely to convince the court he is guilty.” The defendant is pleading guilty, while maintaining their
        claim of innocence.

        Karen S. Beers, BSW, CFDI, CCDI, earned her Bachelor's in Social Work from Colorado State University (Magna Cum
        Laude).  She is a Certified Forensic Death Investigator (CFDI) and Certified Criminal Defense Investigator (CCDI).  Her
        background, education and experience with victim advocacy and counseling are valuable assets in working with families
        and victims of traumatic events.

        As a death investigator Karen was involved in the investigations of all manners of deaths and incidents, training under
        three Forensic Pathologists.  From 2004-2006 she investigated and assisted with numerous death cases and scenes, and
        assisted with forensic autopsies. Following graduation from Colorado State University was an extensive internship at a
        youth counseling and rehabilitation facility.


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