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Is Eric Volz in jail because of Nicaraguan anger at America?

Posted: Saturday, April 21, 2007 10:40 AM by Dateline Editor
Filed Under:

by Keith Morrison, Dateline correspondent

 To explore the story of Eric Volz is to take a walk in a nightmare.  Volz is the young American accused, charged and convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend, the beautiful Doris, the jewel of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.

We arrived in that poor but truly lovely country in the midst of a media war -- the Nicaraguan media (or at least, the main national tabloid paper), which printed giant headlines declaring Volz's guilt, versus a growing U.S.-based Internet campaign launched by friends and family in an effort to show he was subjected to an obscene perversion of justice.

"Don't misunderstand," Nicaraguans told us, "We're not anti-American.  But we don't want that rich 'gringo' to avoid paying for his crime." 

  The basic facts are these:  Eric, an ambitious young American, gets involved in San Juan's booming real estate market.  He starts a magazine, 'El Puente,' (the bridge), whose stated mission is to encourage responsible development in Central America. He takes up with the prettiest girl in town, Doris, who is soon in his company at all hours of the night and day. 

But soon Volz finds San Juan too small for his publishing ambitions.  He moves the enterprise to Managua, and plans a further move to Costa Rica.

Doris, left behind in San Juan, stays in touch with Eric but soon has a new boyfriend.  Then, last November, as Eric Volz is meeting with colleagues at his office in Managua, he gets a phone call from San Juan:  Doris has been brutally raped and murdered.

How Volz becomes the chief suspect, and then the most famous inmate in Nicaragua's Tipitapa prison is a twisted tale worthy of Franz Kafka.

In this case, the defendant's apparently impeccable alibi, supported by no fewer than 10 people, is thrown out by the judge, as angry crowds chant for his conviction, and threaten to lynch him.  It's a case in which the defendant hires his own armed guards, and still is chased through town by the mob.

And yet?  When we visited Eric Volz in Tipitapa prison, just outside Managua, we were offered the utmost courtesy by every official from the warden to the lowliest guard.  We had wondered, before we arrived if Volz was in some sense a stand-in for Nicaraguan anger at America.  But, in Managua, in San Juan, we encountered no hostility at all.

Public anger was reserved instead for a man who - whether you find yourself attracted to his character, or repelled - could simply not have been anywhere near the ugly crime that ended the life of the beautiful Doris.

Now, his fate is in the hands of a panel of judges set to review the evidence and hear his appeal.  They could affirm his 30-year jail sentence, order a new trial, or set him free.  "In this country," an observer told us,"this case is like O.J. Simpson."  In a matter of days, much of Nicaragua will be watching to see what happens to Eric Volz.

Keith Morrison's report, 'Murder by the Sea', aired Dateline Sunday, April 22, 8 p.m. Read a transcript and watch the full broadcast here. Watch YouTube videos arguing this case.

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Comments

WEll I watch finish watching in NBC about this so horrible traggic that happen to Eric Volz I know that this is hard but I believe there is justice to see someone go through this I cant understand it how could they not see it they have a inncent person who shouldn't pay for someones guilt. God bless Eric Volz

Anna, Long Beach , California (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 12:46 AM)

I think this is a total injustice and I would never in my lifetime go to that country. Obviously those people down there do not believe in God or karma.

CD-long Beach, CA (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 12:47 AM)

What a travesty! It was apalling hearing the facts of this case and the conclusion of this young man's guilt by the judge. To think I am facing an uphill struggle getting my 3 abducted sons returned from the Philippines. We cannot depend on foreign countries and governments for fairness and justice. I will be praying for Eric Vols and his family that his appeals hearing will be handled more fairly than his trial.

John Lee Smith San Diego, California (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 12:53 AM)

How can they get away with this. He was able to prove he was miles away from the murder. He is not safe. We need to bring him home. Where is our government when we need them.

Anna Pomona Ca (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 1:09 AM)

Thank you for presenting the story on Eric Volz. A few things bothered me in regards to the story. One: The supposed,current boyfriend was never interviewed, shown, and, for that matter may not even exist(of course unless I missed that part).Two: Having myself lived in Nicaragua in 1997, the mother and aunt's dress and accessories doesn't coincide with their social and economical status. The average employee makes $50-$75 per month.Third: Where's the DNA evidence to prove guilt or innocence ? Also, the attorney he retained to defend him works for Daniel Ortega. The judge also demonstrated a bias conviction, demonstrating she also part of the plan. I hope you follow this story. I personally believe there is more to this story and may be part of a government cover up.

nancy guerra, rancho cucamonga, ca (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 1:13 AM)

I like watching Dateline a lot because I think the stories are interesting, but when I watched the episode about Eric Voltz I got sucked in. I honestly do not think he is guilty. I mean why would he murder Doris? It just doesn't make any sense. Eric seems like a good guy. I feel so badly for him because he doesn't deserve what happened to him. I feel like the judge made a big mistake. Why would his friends and the people he work with lie about what Eric was doing? This story stuck to me like glue. I could not stop talking about it with my Mother. I feel deep sympathy for Eric and his family.

Kristi Eide, Agoura Hills, California (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 1:16 AM)

I like watching Dateline a lot because I think the stories are interesting, but when I watched the episode about Eric Voltz I got sucked in. I honestly do not think he is guilty. I mean why would he murder Doris? It just doesn't make any sense. Eric seems like a good guy. I feel so badly for him because he doesn't deserve what happened to him. I feel like the judge made a big mistake. Why would his friends and the people he work with lie about what Eric was doing? This story stuck to me like glue. I could not stop talking about it with my Mother. I feel deep sympathy for Eric and his family.

Kristi Eide, Agoura Hills, California (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 1:16 AM)

Why is it that I just spent an hour to hear a story about Nicaraugua thinking it was going to be a story about my country. Well for one thing it was actually being coverd on the English news which hardly EVER happens. Just to find out the story was about a white American male that lands himself in jail!!! Why was this story so imporant that all the Dateline viewers had to watch it and hear about..why? Why do I have to know the life of Eric Volz? What makes him so important and speacil that this story was done on him? WHY??? I have been in the US since 1983, when my family left Nicargua to avoid the Civil war. My family looks for news on our country to see what is going ever day, which we usually find on the spanish news stations. But no not tonight...tonight dateline spend there time to cover a story about Nicaragua, but why was this story covered in the first place because it's about a white male in jail. That is the only reason!!! It's always the same thing here in the United States... when Latinos and Black people go to jail who cares, OH well we never here about it on the news they just go to jail unless there about to be executed then all the news stations are on that story like a dog with his bone. But heaven forbid that a White America male go to jail and in another country then we all get to hear about this injustice on the news. And this story made it to Nightline no less. Let's make Nicaragua look like this awful place that can't even properly investigate a crime. Why does how our world work suprise me I don't know? Actually it doesn't, it angers me and makes me ashmed to be a US Citizen because the prejudice in this country is NEVER going to change. NERVER EVER!!! Why not report on how beatiful Nicaragua is, about toursim, the people, the country, the beaches, the food, the culture etc.? What made this story so important that is was covered tonight?

Ericka MacKenzie- Concord, CA (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 2:02 AM)

What an amazing story! I have traveled all over Latin countries, and have heard stories similar to Eric's case. You are guilty until proven otherwise, but all the proof needed to free Eric was to no avail. Justice system is corrupt in these countries and can not be trusted. We have problems in our own country, but its nothing, compared to what goes on in developing countries. We should think twice, before we take another trip in these countries. It is sad, because I truly love the people!

Mike Fujimori Los Angeles, Ca (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 2:06 AM)

I hope that anyone who thinks Eric is guilty based on their stupid ideas is never on my jury. Sheesh! Based on the evidence that was presented on this Dateline show he seems pretty innocent to me until PROVEN otherwise. There is absolutely no proof that he did or hired some thug to do it. This should have nothing to do with him being an American OR where the crime was committed. You are some scary people.

Lori, Fountain Hills, AZ (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 11:00 PM)

I watched the story and was very interested from the beginning. I believe that he did not physically kill the girl but I believe he had something to do with the murder. He never once talked about the sadness he had or that he would never ever kill anyone in general. He always talked about how he has alibi's that he was not there. I think he was involved in some way or another. He just continued to talk all about where he was, but I agree that they did not investigate the case thoroughly. We also did not hear anything about the relationship with him and the codefendant that is serving 30 years as well.

D Porter, Seattle, Wash (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 11:10 PM)

The evidence does not support Eric being guilty. More than anything I think he was in the wrong place at the wrong time and became a lightning rod for the anti U.S. sentiments which are very real South of the border, feelings that became volatile when whipped up by the Nicaraguan press. Does the U.S. press ever go for sensationalism to sell papers? I'll bet this story sold alot of papers. How long do you think that judge would have lived if she hadn't found Eric guilty? Was she receiveing death threats? Dunno, NBC didn't cover that part of the story. My guess is the guns going off outside the courtroom during the trial were also speaking to the Judge. If you find yourselves asking why don't these people South of the Border like us, then do your homework and read the "Pinochet Files" to get an idea of the kind of unjust behaviors our government has participated in South of the Border, and to date no one has been held accountable. We have also done many wonderful things to help these countries, but one does not excuse the other. Does anyone really think that every foreigner jailed by our country or in our country has always received justice and a fair trial? Who's telling their stories? Don't get me wrong I think Eric is getting a raw deal that stinks, I wouldn't wish this on anyone, including the people we as a nation have done this to.

Kevin Wynkoop, Traverse City, Michigan (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 11:36 PM)

Please do continue to closely monitor this case and keep the public aware of what is happening to this young man so wrongly accused. He is articulate and sure of himself. Perhaps some may think that he is cocky. He was a successful, young entrepeneur who needed just those virtues to succeed. I believe that it is just that strong character that is keeping him alive. Our government must be contacted, must be urged, must be heard and seen as a strong force. A force that by it's public united strength will force the Nicaraguan government to look at this case with fresh, untainted eyes during the appeal process. They say that lightning can't strike twice. Let's pray to God that something this horrific could not happen again during the appeal. Eric we are praying for your immediate freedom.

Jillian Jordane (Sent Monday, April 23, 2007 11:42 PM)

What was that judge thinking , he accounted for where he was at the time of the murder... what more do they want.. and the word gringo stinks.. we are americans .. would they like to be called other names.. no I think not.. Our country needs to help him to return here.. thats it...

Maryann Lopez (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 12:06 AM)

It is pathetic with so much evidence in Eric's defense that it was all thrown out because some judge was afraid of the crowd. I have lived in Honduras for 5 years and my wife is from Honduras. I also lived in Venz for 9 years. I was planning on taking a vacation to Nicragua but am seriously reconsidering. No vacation is worth visiting a country that has no justice. I am also familiar with the aid provided by US embassys, it is non existent. I do not even know how they can justify there presence in a foreign country. It is sure not to aid the average American which is who pays their salaries. Everyone I knew avoided them and could get more help in an emergency from the English embassy.

Scott Bates, Texas (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 12:23 AM)

I thank Dateline for presenting this story. As a person who travels regularly to Central America, it reminds me how vulnerable to injustice we are once we step out of the United States. And one thing that is seemingly lost with all of this is that a horrible killer is still loose on the streets of that small town, with now little (or no) hope of ever finding the person responsible for the young woman's brutal death. A very moving, thought-provoking story...and immensely sad.

Paul, Atlanta, GA (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 12:28 AM)

Why is there no mention of why there was no DNA testing? Any American can afford to pay for the DNA testing. And any of us would do it if that's what it takes to determine guilt or innocence; it's not that expensive anymore. This is the obvious question. So why didn't the reporter think of it? And why didn't Eric question the cops as to DNA testing. I would assume that DNA testing might not be routinely done in a poor country, but it might be budgeted in for such a publicized case, or it could have been done if Eric had offered to pay for it if he really wanted to catch the killer(s). The reporter is shorting us on some story. Why?

Robert Huntington (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 12:34 AM)

What a crazy story! I hope he is able to be freed, and true justice served. I am not surprised though. American money is greatly desired by foreign countries, but the people are resented. And we foolishly think we will be accepted wherever we go because we are generous, but we are often ignorant of local customs or traditions. (Look at Richard Gere). That makes us appear arrogant. We are far from the safety our own country offers, and tend to forget we are at the mercy of the country in which we are guests. In spite of all it's failings, we in the US still have, I feel, one of the most fair political, justice, and prison systems in the world. I'd take my chances here! Those of you who whine constantly about how unfair our government is, move to one of these third world countries and take YOUR chances there!

Rita, Mukwonago, WI (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 2:50 AM)

Alot of people only are making their statements due to what they saw on dateline. I personally knew the people involved i lost a beautiful friend. Many of you never lived in the country, never met the locals who were also tried I did go to prison and i know that Eric did kill Doris and her family has lost more than word can describe. The statements made were not how the locals feel it is all about how the Americans feel what they "saw" , you do not know the whole story so before you go and look down on Nicaragua and the corrupt government there we need to take a step back and look at our own problems here. in the end "Dios va a tener la justicia!"

Jane doe, somewhere in Florida (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 7:15 AM)

I watched the show on Eric Volz and a couple things bothered me. 1. Why no disclosure of who Doris was supposed seeing? 2. If Eric had moved on and Doris was in a new relationship, why was he still seeing her and apparently still in a sexual relationship with her? He appeared very arrogant, self centered and a typical spoiled rich kid who really has no regard for anyone other than his self. I saw no concern or compassion for Doris, from him. We all know if you have enough money you can purchase any service, even murder and if you planned on having someone murdered...wouldn't you make certain to cover your self with an alibi? It just seemed he went out of his way to account for his entire day with way to many check able alibis. Its apparent, he is far from stupid....but has little regard for others feelings...ref his remark concerning Doris.....She was not invited.....to move on with him...even though he had "used her" for over a year...How self serving.

Sandra Scott, Kansas (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 7:29 AM)

Both the prosecutor and judge in this case were obviously looking to either cover their own asses or capitalize on the fame this case brought to boost their own careers...it's really sickening when innocent people have to go to jail because you have a lynchmob outside the court room- especially a US citizen who has provided enough evidence to clear his name. This case is a tragic miscarriage of justice.

Lin Ft. Lauderdale Florida (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 9:03 AM)

I believe,that Eric Voltz is Innocent....They have no evidence linking him to the crime and he had 10 witnesses accounting for where he was at the time of the murder..and to throw 10 witnesses's testimonies out over 1 drunk mans testimony is beyond me...I hope he gets set free..for he is innocent

Angela Alderson,Spindale,Noerth Carolina (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 9:13 AM)

Eric Volz has not helped his case by being so arrogant, aggressive, rude, and apparently contemptuous of the local people around him. Not once did I hear from him an expression of regret or sorrow over his former girlfriend's death. Even if he did not kill her himself, he could have ordered her murder. He may be innocent but he is neither a likeable person nor a good representative of the U.S. abroad. He cannot expect sympathy from a people he has used solely for his own profit.

Rosina Anderson, Franklin, TN (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 9:15 AM)

I fear there is no hope for Eric now. The US is not a perfect country, but our justice system is one of the best. This is not the case in other countries. I will pray for Eric and his family. My heart breaks for them. I only wish there was something more I could do. I agree with Rosa who said the family must knock on every door, talk to every newspaper, radio station, tv network, and politician that there is. Clearly the justice system isn't working in his favor; maybe a little begging and shmoozing will be more effective. It's worth a try if it gets him a new trial or even better - freed! God Bless America!

Erin, Atlanta, GA (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 11:13 AM)

Hi Keith: You are a masterful story teller. My 5 year old child tunes into Dateline just to hear you tell a story. When I read to her, she wants me to read like "Keith Morrison from Dateline." I also love to hear you. Thank you for being a rare breed. Kristi: You go sucked in because of the way the story has been told among other reason.

Maxine Davidson, Toronto, Canada (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 11:14 AM)

To the people that posted he is guilty. Eric was convicted on the word of an admitted drunk that was given immunity to testify against him. On top of that he had 10 or more upstanding witnesses that placed him out of town during that time. Based on the evidence it's obvious that the judge was biased and that this is a wrongful conviction.

James Machie, Coventry, Conn. (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 11:15 AM)

I watched the entire program and I think it was proved beyond a doubt that he did not do it. You may not like his personality but that doesn't give anyone the right to take his life. Please tell us what to do to persuade our government to help this man. We are the first ones there to help everyone else-why not help an American? He needs help or he will die there.

Sheila Dodd, Atlanta, Georgia (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 11:19 AM)

WOW! How can this be? Shouldnt someone with the US have represented this man? I dont get it! Let's send in a helicopter to break him out of jail. Give them people something to really talk about!

Allen, Omaha Nebraska (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 11:55 AM)

Why I did not hear a mention of the caller who called Eric to report the death of Doris ? And where was Eric when the call came ? Was he in Managua? Did he talk to the caller ? I learned this case only from the internet and YES ! I did get the drift that Eric is rather arrogant.

Constantine, Athens, Greece (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 11:57 AM)

Our country needs to help Eric. We can help people from other countries why can we not help our people. If we don't help Eric I will be ashamed of us.

helpless, louisa va (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 12:28 PM)

Not only is the U.S. not doing anything but President Bush signed a 175 million dollar aid package sent for Nicaragua last year. Why don't we stop sending monies to countries who often despise and abuse American rights. I worked in Africa for 7 years and saw more corruption than I thought I could have in a lifetime.

Eric, Tucson, Arizona (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 12:44 PM)

As a son of a Nicaraguan mother I was considering retiring there. Now I don't think so.

eddie chicago (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 12:55 PM)

UNFORTUNETLY, THE PERSON THAT WAS GIVEN AMMUNITY FROM PROSECUTION MAY WELL BE THE KILLER OF THIS YOUNG GIRL. GIVEN AMMUNITY FOR WHAT HE KNOWS IN THIS CRIME, HE MAY NEVER BE TRIED FOR IT. MEANWHILE ERIC SITS IN JAIL AWAITING APPEAL. THERE ARE MANY AMERICANS SITTING IN JAIL FOR CRIMES THEY HAVE NOT COMMITTED AND MAYBE ERIC IS ONE OF THESE VICTIMS. BUT HE IS NOT IN THE UNITED STATES. AND BEING IN A FOREGIN COUNTRY WE HAVE TO KNOW AND ABIDE BY THE RULES GOVERNING THAT COUNTRY. ANYONE INTERESTED IN MOVING TO ANOTHER COUNTRY OR A STATE WITHIN THE UNITED STATES, KNOW YOUR RIGHTS BEFORE VISTING OR MOVING THERE.

MARY, SPRINGFIELD MA (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:03 PM)

I am an American that has family in Nicaragua. The people there do not hate Americans! Yes. Eric Voltz was punished for a crime he did not commit and it breaks my heart that this is taking place, but please don't judge the people of Nicaragua based on what was happening in Rivas. I asked my family and friends what people think about this case outside of Rivas and San Juan Del Sol. They believe Eric is innocent. The people of Nicaragua are truly wonderful people and give the best hospitality. It’s just unfortunate that this had to happen to Eric Voltz. I pray for his release but please don’t put down such a beautiful country until you have gone there yourself. It is truly a beautiful place with wonderful people who have hearts of gold!

Lynda Carrasquilla, San Francisco, CA (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:09 PM)

This guy is likely a typical charismatic sociopath. He showed no emotion in the interview despite having suffered the traumatic loss of his girlfriend. He wants us to believe that she happily lived with him even though he never promised her a committed relationship. There is evidence of his controling behavior in their relationship and now he is attempting to manipulate the public in an effort to escape justice. Don't believe it. He's guilty.

No name, Salt Lake City, Utah (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:10 PM)

Its not about putting other countries down like some viewers must think! Its called justice being screamed out for innocents,this guy is being sentence for a crime the he didnt committe based on all the documents he presented to the court . Im a latina and I don't think he's being showed on dateline because he's a white male in an other country stuck on jail it could of been any of us over there!I and the rest of the viewer just want justice either from nicaragua or from our own goverment.

Hayra Serna- Brownsville Tx (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:22 PM)

he is innocent.i really feel bad for him.i hope he will get a fair trial and be set free soon.

anu (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:25 PM)

I agree with one writer. The family membrs need to get involved with their son's case. Get ahold of your senator, congressman and also their city officials make your voice heard loud and clear. Do not back down just keep going.

mary anderson (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:32 PM)

I agree with one writer. The family membrs need to get involved with their son's case. Get ahold of your senator, congressman and also their city officials make your voice heard loud and clear. Do not back down just keep going.

mary anderson (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:33 PM)

I dont think he did it, i think they are just afraid of the outcome from the public if they would have found him not guilty...

Angela, Houston TX. (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:34 PM)

The US Embassy and US government are as responsbile for this injustice as the Nicaraguan Court System. There is no chance this conviction would hold up in a US Court based on the evidence. Our government makes me completely sick, flex your god damn muscle and step in...I will ask a question and answer honestly, if Eric were the son of an elected govnerment official(ie.congressman , senator, etc.) do you think he would be home right now? i say yes...

Jason Colorado Springs, CO (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:42 PM)

The investigators, the prosecutor, and the judge have a commitment to finding Eric guilty which exceeds, indeed vitiates, any loyalty they have to truth or reality. They are determined to indict Eric precisely to the extent to which they suspect, in their conscience, he is innocent. Eric possesses the moral serenity of knowing he did not do this.The Nicaraguans arrayed against Eric obviously have never known what it is like to seek a truth which exists independently of their own psychological needs. Based on the evidence there cannot be a single person who has a moral confidence in Eric's guilt that even begins to compare to the moral confidence of those who allow themselves to persuaded by what is objectively the case here. robert wood

robert wood toronto canada (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:42 PM)

I watched this on NBC Dateline this past Sunday! I honestly believe that Eric is not guilty. He has a great alibi that showed where he was at the time of the crime. I belive that they should set him free and arrest the other Nicaraguan as he shows to be the Murderer

LD, Houston, TX (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 1:56 PM)

It doesn't surprise me that this young man got what he got. Every year that I go back home I hear about these kinds of things. But honestly people that go to my country with american money feel that they have the power to do anything and if that is the case I wish that the immigration laws in my country would be enforced just like they are here. I guess it is ok for anyone from the U.S. to visit any country and even reside and not get treated like a lot of immigrants are being treated. This guy did not convince me that he didn't do it. Plus the story makes the country look like an evil place because the U.S. likes to make everything political, always sticking their nose where it should not be. Look at Iraq for an example. What happened to the weapons of mass destruction? The U.S. got away with getting Saddam out of power but for what? How many kids and not only north american kids but kids that are from all of the world fighting for something that the U.S. feels that it was right. How many innocent people must die because of the actions of our supposedly intellectual government. Only because the story was about a white kid, are we to feel sorry for him? What if it was a hispanic or black or any other ethnicity that was in the same situation here in the U.S.? I bet the book would have been thrown on him/her.

Augusto Porras (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 2:08 PM)

I really believe that Eric should be set free because the evidence that convicted him was too weak to give a young man with a great future 30 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. I thought Eric answered all the questions honestly and without hesitation during the Dateline interview.

Shiletha Hancik Fontana, Ca (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 2:12 PM)

GUILTY! GUILTY! GUILTY! of being an arrogant s.o.b American. If you`re so superior to others...stay home! Whether he did it or not none of us will ever know. But his arrogance was hard to take...difficult to feel any sympathy...

John Smith Bakersfield California (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 2:22 PM)

Nicaragua is not anti-American, as a native-born Nicaraguan I can say this with quite some certainty. That is really all I have to say. I feel sorry for Doris' family and I just hope that justice is found.

Luis Pastran, Oneonta NY (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 2:41 PM)

I am so sorry for poor Eric. I am praying for both Eric and our country. It seems our country should be able to help out more with this matter. Good Luck!

Joy - Missouri (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 2:46 PM)

I am appauled at the treatment of this young gentleman Eric and I support his innocence knowing the facts that were given in this case. I know for a fact that it was impossible for him. to commit this crime I am praying for him up here in Canada and I want the family to know this as well.All of you are in my prayers God is in control Now and Always will be...Amen and Amen..Sherry Dyson

sherry dyson newmarket ont canada (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 3:07 PM)

I beleive that there is probably more to the story than we know. Based on the evidence Eric had he should be freed, but it doesn't take away from the fact that he could have very easily hired someone to do it instead of him. It happens here in the states all the time, why not in another country. He might of not handled rejection too well and he definetely has demonstrated some level of arrogance throughout the entire case. He just rubs me the wrong way. I don't completely beleive his story about his relationship with Doris being so casual. It seems unlikely that we will ever know the truth behind this story.

Norfred, Hialeah, Florida (Sent Tuesday, April 24, 2007 3:13 PM)



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