March 6, 2004
Martha Stewart Guilty
From The News Agency, The People That Bring You The News
Martha Stewart was found guilty on four federal charges yesterday. She faces a prison term of up to twenty years. The sentencing portion of the trial is scheduled for June.
While it is difficult to understand the exact nature of the charges, many see her as controlling, demanding and a perfectionist. Some residents among townspeople where she lives said Stewart had not made many friends. They described cold or unpleasant encounters.
“Stewart has a bad rap among the town's hair and makeup artists.” said one hair
colorist in Westport. “She’s not the nicest person.” The owner of a local
Deli said Stewart wasn't particularly friendly when she ran in to get a cup of
coffee recently. "When she came in here, she could have been nicer."
Stewart made much the same impression on jurors. The one who spoke publicly
Friday about how the jury made up its mind said “she thought she was above
everyone" and called the guilty verdict a victory for “the average guy.”
Interviews with trial watchers reveal a belief that Stewart will find life in prison much less pleasant than she has heretofore experienced. And most said with her behind bars they will feel much better. It remains uncertain whether the interests of the little guy on the stock market will be greatly enhanced.
- T.N.A.