Bad reaction to Casey Anthony verdict media's fault

It's already being called "the social media trial of the century."

And though there's still a lot of century to go, it's undeniable that Casey Anthony's recent murder trial has captured the American imagination. With tense minute-to-minute updates playing out on American cable news, the case reached a level of publicity not seen since O.J. Simpson ruled the airwaves.

Bing: Who is Casey Anthony?

Anthony, a 25-year-old mother from Florida, was accused of murdering her two-year-old daughter Caylee and then lying to police about her daughter's disappearance. This week, a jury found her not guilty of the first count and guilty of the second. Anthony was sentenced to four years in prison, but will be released July 17 because of time served and good behaviour.

The jury stated there wasn't enough evidence to convict Anthony beyond a reasonable doubt, but the decision didn't quell the court of public opinion.

Public backlash erupted on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter as people reacted emotionally to the verdict.

Anthony had been villified for failing to report her daughter's disappearance to police for several weeks and also for getting a tattoo and partying with friends in the meantime.

Anthony's lawyer blamed the media for judging his client and for stoking negative public perception.

Commentary in the social media sphere judged her largely based on circumstantial evidence and speculation. The jury showed this week that it could not be so easily swayed.

Up next for Anthony is a possible memoir where she tells her side of the story, and rumours are already brimming about a movie adaptation of her life, with Twilight star Kristin Stewart playing the lead.

What do you think about the case?

Does social media influence your views more than traditional media?

Chris Mitchell