My Closing Statement

The defensive side has clearly demonstrated in this court that Jack is not responsible in any way for the acts in question. Not only did these acts take place under abnormal circumstances, but they have been shown justifiable. Those deaths that occurred on the island have been proven unintentional and cannot be charged to the defendant, Jack Merridew.

A child psychologist has given cause to believe that Merridew's judgement and psyche were affected by his growing up during wartime and his situation on the desert island. On this island, English law could not be applied and therefore does not pertain to this case. The need for survival, and the lack of leadership that would insure that survival compelled the defendant to take a dominant position on the island. Jack Merridew testified that Ralph did not have the ability to create a secure, functional society. Ralph's influence worsened the situation when he refused to obey Jack's elect authority. Ralph, Piggy, Sam, and Eric threatened the groups survival by refusing to participate in the newly unified and strengthened island rule.

Simon revealed in his testimony that a figure on the mountain justifiably caused fear and alarm among the group of boys. This fear led to Simon's death as an act of self-defense. In an effort to protect and sustain his tribe, which consisted of the vast majority of boys, the defendant put certain precautions into place. Jack obtained Piggy's glasses in order to insure the boy's survival and bring them comfort from the fear. He also set up a post to protect the boys from any intruders or unwelcome creatures. At the time of Piggy and Ralph's confrontation of the tribe at Castle Rock, Roger utilized the protection device at the guarding post to murder Piggy. This action was at his own decision, not at Jack's command. Jack cannot lawfully be prosecuted for another's crimes. He, along with the other tribe members responded to any threat to their safety or survival with necessary defensive actions.

Today, the defense has illustrated to the judge and jury that the unfortunate events that took place on the island were not the results of the defendants intentions to harm, and certainly not to murder anyone. On the contrary, it has been proven that all actions were taken in the best interest of the boys. Jack was able to secure a command that was beneficial and integral for the group. The testimony of all witnesses has shown that all steps taken by the defendant were a result of his motive to sustain the group, and no crimes can be charged to his account.