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Current Events and Musings => News of the Day => Topic started by: texasmom on February 03, 2013, 04:22:08 PM



Title: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: texasmom on February 03, 2013, 04:22:08 PM
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/04/us/chris-kyle-american-sniper-author-reported-killed.html

‘American Sniper’ Author Shot to Death in Texas
By MICHAEL SCHWIRTZ
Published: February 3, 2013

Since retiring from the Navy SEALs, Chris Kyle, whom the Pentagon has deemed as among America’s deadliest snipers, would occasionally take fellow veterans shooting as a kind of therapy to salve battlefield scars.

(http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2013/02/04/us/04author_2/04author_2-popup.jpg)
Paul Moseley/The Fort Worth Star-Telegram, via Associated Press
Chris Kyle in 2012.

Mr. Kyle, 38, author of the best-selling book “American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History,” was with a struggling former soldier on just such an outing on Saturday, hoping that a day at a shooting range would bring some relief, said a friend, Travis Cox.

But the Texas authorities said Sunday that the troubled veteran turned on Mr. Kyle and a second man, Chad Littlefield, shooting and killing both before fleeing in a pickup truck.

“Chad and Chris had taken a veteran out to shoot to try to help him,” Mr. Cox said. “And they were killed.”

The police identified the gunman as Eddie Ray Routh, 25, who had served in both Iraq and Afghanistan and had suffered from mental illness. The police offered no information about a possible motive.

Mr. Routh shot the men about 3:30 p.m. on Saturday at the Rough Creek Lodge, an exclusive shooting range near Glen Rose, Tex., about 50 miles southwest of Fort Worth, Sgt. Lonny Haschel, a spokesman for the State Department of Public Safety’s Highway Patrol Division, said in a statement. Mr. Routh was arrested on Saturday night at his home in Lancaster, a suburb south of Dallas. He has been charged with two counts of capital murder, Mr. Haschel said.

Mr. Cox, the director of a foundation that Mr. Kyle created, said he did not know Mr. Routh. Mr. Kyle, he said, had devoted his life since his retirement from the military to helping fellow soldiers overcome post-traumatic stress.

In 2011, Mr. Kyle created the FITCO Cares Foundation to provide veterans with exercise equipment and counseling. He believed that exercise and the camaraderie of fellow veterans could help former soldiers ease into civilian life. “He served this country with extreme honor, but came home and was a servant leader in helping his brothers and sisters dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder,” Mr. Cox, also a former military sniper, said by telephone.

Mr. Kyle, who lived outside of Dallas, had his own difficulties adjusting after retiring from the SEALs in 2009. He was deployed in Iraq during the worst years of the insurgency, perched in or on top of bombed-out apartment buildings with his .300 Winchester Magnum.

His job was to provide “overwatch,” preventing enemy fighters from ambushing Marines as they moved through Iraqi towns.

He did not think the job would be difficult, he wrote in his book, but two weeks into the war, he found himself staring through his scope into the face of an unconventional enemy. A woman with a child had pulled a grenade from beneath her clothes as several Marines approached. He hesitated, he wrote, but then fired the shot.

“It was my duty to shoot, and I don’t regret it,” he wrote. “My shots saved several Americans, whose lives were clearly worth more than that woman’s twisted soul.”

Over time, his hesitation diminished and he became better at his job. He was credited with more than 150 deaths. He became the scourge of Iraqi insurgents, who put a price on his head and were said to have called him the “Devil of Ramadi.” In his book, he describes taking out a fighter wielding a rocket launcher 2,100 yards away, a very long distance for a sniper and the longest for Mr. Kyle.

“Maybe the way I jerked the trigger to the right adjusted for the wind,” he wrote. “Maybe gravity shifted and put that bullet right where it had to be.”

“Whatever, I watched through my scope as the shot hit the Iraqi, who tumbled over the wall to the ground.”

Mr. Kyle received two Silver Stars and five Bronze Stars for valor.

He would later describe his service in humble terms, preferring to talk not about the enemies killed, but the lives saved.

“I feel pretty good because I am not just killing someone, I am also saving people,” he said in a January 2012 interview with The Dallas Morning News. “What keeps me up at night is not the people that I have killed, it is the people I wasn’t able to save.”

In an interview with The New York Times in March, Mr. Kyle said that he had hesitated to write a book about his experiences. But he was persuaded to do so after hearing that other books about SEALs were in the works.

“I wanted to tell my story as a SEAL,” he said. “This is about all the hardships that everybody has to go through to get the respect and the honor.”

But he also wanted his sense of humor to come out, he said, noting that he tried to “write in a Texas drawl.”

 ::snipping2::

For all his success, friends and fellow veterans described Mr. Kyle as a humble warrior and down-to-earth family man who loved his wife and two children. In gatherings with other veterans, he would deflect the praise of well-wishers and play up the achievements of his comrades.

“He wasn’t the ‘American Sniper’ to all of his friends,” Mr. Cox said. “He was Chris Kyle, and he was right alongside you. He was proud to be a veteran, and he would do anything he could to serve veterans.”

Manny Fernandez and Julie Bosman contributed reporting.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: texasmom on February 03, 2013, 04:26:59 PM
http://www.heraldonline.com/2013/02/03/4590187/official-statement-from-us-navy.html

Official Statement from U.S. Navy Seal Chris Kyle’s Non-Profit Organization, FITCO Cares Foundation

Published: February 3, 2013

DALLAS — On behalf of the Board of Directors of the non-profit organization that Chris helped establish, my heart is breaking. Our foundation, FITCO Cares, this country and most importantly, his wife Taya and their children, lost a dedicated father and husband, a lifelong patriot and an American hero.

Chris Kyle was a hero for his courageous efforts protecting our country as a U.S. Navy SEAL during four tours of combat. Moreover, he was a hero for his efforts stateside when he helped develop the FITCO Cares Foundation. What began as a plea for help from Chris looking for in-home fitness equipment for his brothers- and sisters-in-arms struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) became an organization that will carry that torch proudly in his honor.

Chris died doing what he filled his heart with passion – serving soldiers struggling with the fight to overcome PTSD. His service, life and premature death will never be in vain. May God watch over his family and all those who considered Chris a true friend.

He will forever be missed.

Travis Cox

Director

FITCO Cares Foundation

USMC Recon Sniper

Read more here: http://www.heraldonline.com/2013/02/03/4590187/official-statement-from-us-navy.html#storylink=cpy


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: texasmom on February 03, 2013, 04:37:36 PM
http://www.dallasnews.com/news/crime/headlines/20130203-chris-kyle-record-holding-sniper-as-navy-seal-killed-in-double-slaying-at-erath-county-gun-range.ece

Chris Kyle, record-holding sniper as Navy SEAL, killed in double slaying at Erath County gun range
   
Erath County Sheriff's Department

Eddie Routh, 25, is being held on a $3 million bond at Erath County Jail. He is suspected of killing Chris Kyle and Chad Littlefield at a point-blank range while the three men were practicing at a gun range Saturday afternoon.

By TASHA TSIAPERAS Staff Writer ttsiaperas@dallasnews.com
Published: 03 February 2013 12:38 AM

UPDATE: 11:28 a.m.

Eddie Routh, who was arrested on Saturday in connection to the fatal shooting at Rough Creek Lodge and Resort, is being held at the Erath County jail on a $3 million bond, according to officials.

Routh, 25, was arraigned on two counts of capital murder, according to Lonny Haschel, a spokesman for the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Routh, a former Marine and Iraqi War veteran, is believed to suffer from post-traumatic stress syndrome. Investigators say that he shot Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle and Chad Littlefield at point-blank range around 3:30 p.m. Saturday.

Routh tried to flee police in his Ford pickup truck, but was arrested near his home in Lancaster after a brief pursuit, Haschel said.

The Stephenville Empire-Tribune is reporting that Routh is being held on a $3 million bond. According to their report, Routh was at the gun range to practice with Kyle and Littlefield when he turned the gun on them.

UPDATE: 10 a.m. from staff writer Melissa Repko

Officials have identified that second victim of a fatal shooting at Rough Creek Lodge and Resort in Erath County, which killed former Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle.

Chad Littlefield, 35, of Midlothian was identified as the other victim on early Sunday morning.

Kyle, 38, and Littlefield were at the gun range on Saturday afternoon for charity event on behalf of Kyle’s Dallas-based security firm Craft International, when they were shot and killed.

Kyle, who wrote the best-selling book American Sniper, held the record for the number of kills by an American sniper. The Pentagon has confirmed more than 150 of his kills. The previous record was 109. For his service, Kyle was awarded two Silver Stars and five Bronze Stars with Valor. His autobiography, American Sniper, was released last year.

Lancaster police said late Saturday they had arrested Eddie Ray Routh, 25, as a suspect in the double slaying. Routh has been arraigned on two counts of capital murder, according to Texas Department of Public Safety.

Erath County Sherriff’s Department is holding a press conference this afternoon and continues to investigate, along with Somervell County Sherriff’s Department, Stephenville Police, Lancaster Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the Erath County District Attorney and the Texas Rangers.
 
Original story from Sunday's Dallas Morning News

Chris Kyle, a former Navy SEAL who was the U.S. military’s deadliest sharpshooter and wrote the best-selling book American Sniper, was fatally shot Saturday in a double slaying at an Erath County gun range, the U.S. Marshals Service said.

 ::snipping2::

Investigators said that Routh, a former Marine who sources said is believed to suffer from post-traumatic stress syndrome, shot Kyle and the second victim at point-blank range. No information was available on the second victim late Saturday.

Erath County officials had issued an alert for authorities to be on the lookout for the gunman, who was believed to be armed and dangerous and driving a black Ford F-350 truck with large tires and rims.

The suspect was believed to be highly trained with military experience.

Kyle grew up in Texas and spent much of his time riding horses and participating on the school rodeo team. His life quickly changed when he decided to go into the military and became a Navy SEAL. He deployed four times to Iraq. Kyle held the record for number of kills by an American sniper. The Pentagon has confirmed more than 150 of his kills. The previous record was 109.

For his service, Kyle was awarded two Silver Stars and five Bronze Stars with Valor. His autobiography, American Sniper, was released last year.

“When I grew up, I only had two dreams,” he told The News in January 2012. “One was to be a cowboy and another was to be in the military. I grew up extremely patriotic and riding horses. I went to college and was working at a ranch up there. Sunup, sundown, I was in a saddle. By the time I was 24, I decided it was time to go into the military and try it out. It wasn’t exactly the SEALs I was looking for at the time. I just wanted to go into the military and be the best.”

Despite his military, business and writing successes, Kyle remained the same humble friend, Hartson said.

“You would think a guy like that would be cocky or would be arrogant. He’s not,” he said.

“Chris is the same small-town Christian, humble guy he was in high school.”

Hartson, a former Dallas police officer, said he met Kyle at their Midlothian elementary school. He was flooded with online and text messages Saturday afternoon asking if the news of Kyle’s death was true. He said he didn’t know Routh and was stunned to hear his friend had been shot.

“Chris has never changed. He has always been the same guy,” Hartson said. “This guy still drives a pickup truck.”

Kyle told The News in 2012 that he wrote American Sniper because “I wanted to be able to let people know about the sacrifices that not only people in the service make, but what their families go through. I knew this would give me a voice so I could speak about the guys I know who were killed. I wanted to get their story out and I wanted to raise awareness for veterans.

“It is so hard becoming a civilian,” Kyle said. “When you are in the military, everything you do is for the greater good. And as a civilian, everything you do is for your own good.

“When you’re in the military, you are facing life and death every day. And then you come home and hear people who are unhappy about the little things. And you think, are you kidding me? Two weeks ago, I was shot. And this is your problem. … They train us how to become warriors, but then they don’t teach us and train us how to become businessmen.”

Kyle is survived by his wife, Taya, and two children.

Staff writer Tanya Eiserer contributed to this report.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: texasmom on February 03, 2013, 05:33:32 PM
Thank you, and your family for your service to our country, Chris Kyle. 

Your courage and honor will not be forgotten.

My sincere condolences to his wife, children, and all who loved him.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: texasmom on February 03, 2013, 05:34:12 PM
https://www.facebook.com/Fraternal.order

(http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b258/texasmom55/ChrisKyle_02032013_zps2e30fd10-1_zps13eab515.jpg)


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: Blonde on February 04, 2013, 04:38:07 PM
Man charged in fatal shooting of ex-SEAL/author
STEPHENVILLE, Texas (AP) — A 25-year-old Iraq war veteran charged with murdering former Navy SEAL and "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle and his friend turned his semi-automatic handgun onto the pair while they were at a Texas shooting range, authorities said Sunday.
Eddie Ray Routh of Lancaster was arraigned early Sunday on two counts of capital murder in the deaths of Kyle, 38, and Chad Littlefield, 35, at the shooting range about 50 miles southwest of Fort Worth.
Capt. Jason Upshaw with the Erath County Sheriff's Office said Routh used a semi-automatic handgun, which authorities later found at his home. Upshaw declined to give any more details about the type of gun used.
Routh has not made any comments indicating what his motive may have been, Upshaw said. Sheriff Tommy Bryant said Routh was unemployed and "may have been suffering from some type of mental illness from being in the military himself," but he didn't know if Routh was on any medication.
"I don't know that we'll ever know. He's the only one that knows that," Upshaw said.
The U.S. military confirmed Sunday that Routh was a corporal in the Marines from June 2006 to January 2010. He was deployed to Iraq in 2007 and Haiti in 2010. His current duty status is listed as reserve. ::snipping2::

http://music.yahoo.com/news/man-charged-fatal-shooting-ex-seal-author-150201265.html


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 04, 2013, 07:59:01 PM
http://abcnews.go.com/US/american-sniper-suspect-tied-chair-suicide-watch-tasered/story?id=18401660
'American Sniper' Suspect Tied to Chair on Suicide Watch After Being Tasered
February 4, 2013

The former Marine accused of killing Chris Kyle, America's most successful military sniper, has been placed on suicide watch and was Tasered after becoming aggressive and attempting to attack guards at the central Texas jail where he is being held, authorities said.
 ::snipping2::
Guards at the Erath County Jail used a Taser on Routh on Sunday night, after he became belligerent and refused to give jailers the tray on which he had been served dinner, authorities said.
When guards came to collect his tray, Routh "was trying to attack them," said Erath County Sheriff Tommy Bryant at a press conference.

An official at the county jail, unauthorized to speak for attribution, told ABCNews.com that Routh had been placed on suicide watch and was confined to a solitary cell in which he was tied to a chair using restraints.

Routh was arrested Saturday, after the men's bodies were found. Police chased down Routh, who was driving Kyle's stolen pickup truck, disabling the vehicle with tacks and arresting the suspect.

Police said Sunday that Kyle and Littlefield were both killed at close range using a semi-automatic pistol.

Routh was charged with two counts of capital murder and his bond was set for $3 million.

He offered no confession, or hint at a motive, police said.

Routh will be appointed an attorney, but will likely receive a lawyer experienced in handling capital cases.
 ::snipping2::

Video at Link


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 05, 2013, 10:39:17 AM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/crime/Sniper-suspect-traded-soul-for-a-new-truck-affidavit-says-189729711.html
Sniper murder suspect ‘traded his soul for a new truck’
February 5, 2013

Eddie Routh, the double murder suspect who allegedly killed retired Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle and his friend Chad Littlefield, might have committed the crimes to steal Kyle’s truck, according to an arrest affidavit obtained by News 8.
Routh confessed to his sister and her husband about the crime on Saturday night, the document says. When they asked whose black truck he was driving, Routh told them “he traded his soul for a new truck,” according to the affidavit.
 ::snipping2::

Kyle and Littlefield arrived at the Rough Creek Lodge shooting range about 3:15 p.m. on Saturday. Less than two hours later, one of the range officials reported getting an emergency call from three staff members who found the bodies.
“CPR was started until EMTs arrived,” the arrest affidavit reads. Both men had multiple gunshot wounds and were laying on the ground covered in blood.
 ::snipping2::
Investigators have said that Routh allegedly stole Kyle’s black Ford pick-up truck and drove to his sister’s home in Midlothian telling her and her husband that he killed the two men.
Later that night, investigators said they found what they think is the murder weapon, a semi-automatic handgun, at Routh’s home in Lancaster.
Routh’s sister, Laura Blevins, urged her 25-year-old brother, a former Marine, to turn himself in.
Routh telling his sister he traded his soul for a new truck suggests a possible motive in the crime that so far investigators have not yet pinpointed.
Four months ago, Routh threatened to kill himself and his family, according to Lancaster Police.
His mother called 911 to say her son had been drinking alcohol and was upset with his father because he was considering selling a family gun.
"She stated Eddie began arguing and stated he was going to 'blow his brains out,'" according to a police report of the incident on September 20, 2012.
Responding officers also noted the 25-year-old had post traumatic stress disorder.
"Officers feared for the safety of Eddie, his family, and others," the report explained. Police placed Routh into protective custody and took him to Green Oaks Psychiatric Hospital for a mental evaluation.

Video at Link

PDF: Eddie Routh's arrest affidavit
http://images.bimedia.net/documents/combo.pdf


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 05, 2013, 10:41:27 AM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/local/dallas/Snipers-foundation-remaining-silent-until-after-the-funerals-189761361.html
Sniper’s foundation remaining silent until after funerals
February 5, 2013

DALLAS — FITCO Cares, the Carrollton-based foundation that helps veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, told News 8 it is respecting the wishes of Chris Kyle’s family and remaining silent until after his funeral.
Kyle, who was murdered at an Erath County gun range on Saturday, founded the Carrollton-based organization to help veterans who live with PTSD.
 ::snipping2::
Eddie Ray Routh, 25, is charged with felony murder in the shooting deaths of Kyle and his friend, Chad Littlefield, Saturday afternoon on a gun range at Rough Creek Lodge near Glen Rose.
Routh — who investigators said suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder — was receiving some sort of help for it from Kyle when the former Marine turned a semi-automatic handgun on Kyle and Littlefield, investigators said.
Kyle was a Navy SEAL sniper who fought in every major battle of Operation Iraqi Freedom and is credited with more than 150 confirmed kills of insurgents.
After Kyle’s funeral, Cox said FITCO Cares plans a big push to put PTSD in the spotlight.
 ::snipping2::
Littlefield’s funeral is planned for later this week.
No arrangements have yet been announced for Chris Kyle.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 05, 2013, 10:47:01 AM
http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/texas/article/Records-Veteran-had-been-in-mental-hospital-4248233.php
Records: Veteran had been in mental hospital
February 4, 2013

FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — The Iraq War veteran charged with killing a former Navy SEAL sniper and his friend on a Texas shooting range had been taken to a mental hospital twice in the past five months and told authorities he was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, police records show.
 ::snipping2::
Routh, a member of the Marines Corps Reserve, was first taken to a mental hospital Sept. 2 after he threatened to kill his family and himself, according to police records in Lancaster, where Routh lives. Authorities found Routh walking nearby with no shirt and no shoes, and smelling of alcohol. Routh told authorities he was a Marine veteran who was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

"Eddie stated he was hurting and that his family does not understand what he has been through," the report says.

Routh's mother told police her son had been drinking and became upset when his father said he was going to sell his gun. She said Routh began arguing with them and said he was going to "blow his brains out."

Police took Routh to Green Oaks Hospital for psychiatric care.

Dallas police records show Routh was taken back to the same mental hospital in mid-January after a woman called police and said she feared for Routh's safety.

Green Oaks will not release patient information, citing privacy laws. Most people brought by police to the hospital are required to stay at least 48 hours.

In another brush with authorities, Lancaster police in May responded to a burglary reported by Routh's mother that included nine pill bottles. Police say Routh was involved but no other details were available.
 ::snipping2::

Routh joined the Marines in 2006 and rose to the rank of corporal in 2010. His military specialty was small-arms technician, commonly known as an armorer. He had been stationed at Camp Lejeune, N.C., and served in Iraq from 2007-08 and in the Haiti disaster relief mission in 2010.

He is now in the individual ready reserve. He could be called to duty, but it's uncommon unless he volunteers, 1st Lt. Dominic Pitrone of the Marine Forces Services public affairs office said.

Travis Cox, director of FITCO Cares — the nonprofit that Kyle set up to give in-home fitness equipment to physically and emotionally wounded veterans — said he believes that Kyle and Littlefield were helping Routh work through PTSD.

Cox didn't know how Routh and Kyle knew each other. He said the shooting range event was not a FITCO session.

Kyle, 38, left the Navy in 2009 after four tours of duty in Iraq, where he earned a reputation as one of the military's most lethal snipers. "American Sniper" was the No. 3 seller of paperbacks and hardcovers on Amazon as of Monday, and the hardcover was out of stock.

Littlefield, 35, was Kyle's friend, neighbor and "workout buddy," and also volunteered his time to work with veterans, Cox said.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 06, 2013, 07:11:54 PM
http://www.khou.com/news/texas-news/190009161.html
Cowboys Stadium to host Chris Kyle service
February 6, 2013

DALLAS -- A memorial service for former Navy SEAL Chris Kyle has been set for 1 p.m. Monday, February 11 at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, according to Kyle's Facebook page. The event will be open to the public.
 ::snipping2::
Earlier Tuesady, the family of Chad Littlefield announced funeral services for the military veteran. They will take place Friday, February 8 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Midlothian, 1651 South Midlothian Parkway.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 07, 2013, 10:46:43 AM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/local/Leader-of-veterans-group-questions-PTSD-claim-in-sniper-murder-190136361.html
Vets group leader questions PTSD claim in sniper murder
February 7, 2013

 ::snipping2::Driscoll is the president and executive director of the Armed Forces Foundation, a Washington D.C.-based charity that organizes special events for troops, and helps pay the bills of wounded veterans and their families.
The foundation also educates the public about post-traumatic stress disorder in servicemen and servicewomen returning from the battlefield.
“A lot of people are afflicted with it,” Driscoll said.
One person who has claimed to be afflicted is former Marine Eddie Routh, the man accused of the cold-blooded killings of Kyle and Littlefield at a Glen Rose gun range last weekend.
Driscoll doesn’t doubt Routh's claim, but her study of the issue leads her to issue this caution: “This is the first thing people claim when they do something stupid."
Driscoll says before the pubic makes its judgment in this case (and certainly before a jury does), it’s imperative we get a better understanding of exactly what was going on with Eddie Routh long before last weekend; and for that matter, before he ever entered the military.
 ::snipping2::

Video at Link


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 08, 2013, 01:15:49 AM
http://www.kxan.com/dpp/news/local/austin/expert-sniper-will-be-buried-in-austin
Expert sniper will be buried in Austin
Procession will start in Midlothian on Tuesday

February 7, 2013

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Former Navy SEAL and expert sniper Chris Kyle will be buried at the Texas State Cemetery in East Austin on Tuesday.

The Department of Public Safety is coordinating the escort from Midlothian to Austin on Tuesday.

According to the Dallas Morning News, the processional will begin on US-67, just west of US 287 at approximately 9 a.m. and continue south and then on IH-35 to Austin.

A public memorial for Kyle is scheduled for Monday at 1 p.m. at the Cowboys Stadium.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 08, 2013, 02:09:44 PM
http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/cops-photos-show-navy-sniper-death-18435880
Cops: Photos May Show Navy Sniper Before Death
February 8, 2013

A cellphone seized from the home of an Iraq War veteran accused of killing a former Navy SEAL sniper and his friend may contain pictures of him with the victims before their deaths at a Texas shooting range, according to police documents released Thursday.

The phone, a box of 9 mm ammunition, drug paraphernalia and a blue-jean jacket were seized from Eddie Ray Routh's home after he was arrested and allegedly confessed to shooting "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle and his friend, Chad Littlefield, according to a Lancaster Police Department search warrant affidavit, inventory sheet and other documents.

Police in the Dallas suburb also have obtained search warrants for the cellphone's pictures, text messages and recently called or missed phone numbers.

Routh, 25, is charged with one count of capital murder and two counts of murder. He remains jailed in Erath County on $3 million bond.
More...
Video at Link


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 08, 2013, 11:56:20 PM
http://www.kvue.com/news/Nearly-1000-people-say-goodbye-to-Chad-Littlefield-190482351.html
Nearly 1,000 people say goodbye to Chad Littlefield
February 8, 2013

MIDLOTHIAN, Texas -- Three days from now, Chad Littlefield would have celebrated his birthday with his wife, Leanne, and their daughter, Morgan.

But on Friday, his family and friends celebrated every year and every memory they had with him at his funeral at First Baptist Church of Midlothian.

"We came because we love them," said Pam Harris, a friend of the Littlefield family. "Being strong through this -- how you can you prepare for anything like this? They are just wonderful people."
More...


Video at Link


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 09, 2013, 09:04:36 AM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/texas-news/Funeral-procession-route-not-yet-revealed--190481061.html
Sniper's funeral procession to draw enormous crowd; route not revealed
February 8, 2013

ALVARADO -- Though they don't know exactly where they'll see it, the people at VFW Post 9299 know what they'd like to see.

"It would be nice to be wall-to-wall, all the way from here to the destination," said Robin McCullough, who has coordinated patriotic displays by the post. "It would be nice to get out there early, and line the roads and bridges with American flags."

The post in Alvarado might be right along the route of the procession carrying former Navy SEAL Chris Kyle's body to Austin, but it might not be. Police will not reveal the exact plans because of safety concerns.

But we do know the procession will be long -- planners say the procession from Midlothian to Austin could be between one-to-three miles in length. Patriot Guard Riders are rumbling in from all over on their motorcycles.
 ::snipping2::
McCullough  and Key are not alone in wanting to show Kyle and his family respect and support. There's an spreading effort on Facebook encouraging Texans to line I-35 Tuesday morning.

People in Waco are already mapping out the best places. Waco American history teacher Mary Duty, who has a son who served, is behind one of the Facebook postings.

"My vision would be people lined up shoulder-to-shoulder, flag-to-flag, all the way to Austin," she said after school Friday. "Chris Kyle saved many many lives in Iraq. We know he did, and beside the lives he saved in Iraq, he was working to save lives here at home."

The principal at her school has offered a school bus so Mary can take students to the route and offer Kyle and his family a proper salute.

So many believe Kyle deserves a tribute like no other. And from all indications, he'll get it.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 10, 2013, 09:03:40 AM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/local/tarrant/More-details-emerge-about-Chris-Kyle-memorial-at-Cowboys-Stadium-190564101.html
More details emerge about Chris Kyle memorial at Cowboys Stadium
February 9, 2013

Final details are being worked out this weekend for Chris Kyle's memorial service at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington on Monday.
The former Navy SEAL sniper and another man were shot and killed last weekend at an Erath County gun range.
Doors open at 11:30 a.m. and the service starts at 1 p.m.
Lots 1, 2, and 10 will be open for parking.
No cameras, bags or purses will be permitted inside the stadium.
Visitors can bring flowers for the field; they should be dropped off Monday morning at Gates A and K. The flowers will later be donated to veterans hospitals.
Officials have also released route information for the 200-mile funeral procession on Tuesday to escort Kyle's casket from Midlothian to Austin.
The route will start  at 8 a.m. and will travel from the Multi-Purpose Stadium south on 14th Street to U.S. 287. The procession will then travel south on Interstate 35E to Austin bound for the Texas State Cemetery at 909 Navasota Street.
Motorists along the route are alerted to expect delays during the four-to-five hour motorcade which will include military personnel, first responders and Patriot Guard Riders.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 12, 2013, 06:57:00 PM
http://austin.ynn.com/content/top_stories/290403/retired-navy-seal-chris-kyle-laid-to-rest-in-texas-state-cemetery
Retired Navy SEAL Chris Kyle laid to rest in Texas State Cemetery
February 13, 2013

Retired Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle was laid to rest in the Texas State Cemetery Tuesday afternoon.

His funeral procession began about 8:00 in the morning in Midlothian, Tex. just south of Dallas and Fort Worth, and traveled south on Interstate 35. Thousands of motorcyclists, police vehicles and buses made the trip to Austin.

On the side of the highway and on overpasses along the way, Central Texans showed their support, waving signs and American flags.

In Waco, the procession was joined by motorcycle riders from the Central Texas chapter of the Patriot Guard. The riders organized Tuesday not only for the fallen Navy SEAL, but for every man and woman who has served.
 ::snipping2::
On Monday, thousands paid their respects at a memorial service at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington. Nearly 7,000 people attended the service and thousands made the trip to Austin to lay him to rest.
 ::snipping2::

Video & Slide Show at Link

Rest in peace.   ::MonkeyAngel::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 26, 2013, 07:00:38 PM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/texas-news/Routh-family-statement-193397091.html
Family of man accused of killing Chris Kyle issues first statement
February 26, 2013



Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on March 09, 2013, 02:30:29 PM
http://www.kvue.com/home/Artist-brings-Chris-Kyle-statue-from-Florida-to-Arlington-196231791.html
Artist brings Chris Kyle statue to Texas
March 7, 2013

ARLINGTON, Texas -- "He's in there. Get ready for something special," said Greg Marra as he climbed inside the trailer of a pristine moving van, and examined a seven-foot-tall wooden crate.

It contained a life-sized statue of murdered former Navy SEAL Chris Kyle.

Marra sculpted it at his studio in Florida. It arrived Thursday afternoon at Schaefer Art Bronze Casting in Arlington, where the artist helped unload it and prepare it for bronzing.
 ::snipping2::
Video at Link


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on March 28, 2013, 12:02:56 AM
http://www.kxan.com/dpp/news/texas_lege/Chris-Kyle-bill-helps-retiring-military
'Chris Kyle' bill helps retiring military
Spouses also benefit from licensing bill

March 21, 2013

KILLEEN, Texas (KXAN) - Texas lawmakers are considering legislation known as the "Chris Kyle Bill." He's the Navy SEAL killed at a North Texas gun range back in February.

The new law would help fast-track law enforcement or other skilled work for retiring service members as well as for their spouses. It’s something Kyle was in the process of doing.
 ::snipping2::
Other Help

And just this week in Ft. Hood, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation announced the creation of the Military Spouse Employment Advisory Council (MSEAC).

The effort is dubbed one of the first private sector-led councils formed specifically to address military spouse unemployment. A release said it "will concentrate on helping spouses across the country find meaningful employment, by connecting spouses to national and local employers of all kinds."

In 2012, over 1 in 4 military spouses in America were unemployed, the release said.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on June 18, 2013, 10:42:50 PM
http://www.myfoxdfw.com/story/22618526/jesse-ventura-to-sue-chris-kyles-widow
Jesse Ventura to sue Chris Kyle's widow
June 18, 2013

DALLAS -
Former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura wants to sue the wife of a military legend.

It would be a continuation of a lawsuit originally filed against the late Chris Kyle, a Navy SEAL who was killed during a shooting at a North Texas gun range.

In his 2006 best-selling book "American Sniper," Kyle told a story of a bar fight he had with Ventura over some unpatriotic remarks the former governor supposedly made.

Ventura denied the whole incident, and he asked a judge Monday to allow his defamation suit against Kyle to go forward with Kyle's widow as the defendant.

About a year before his murder, Kyle appeared on FOX 4 News to promote his book and told his version of the alleged showdown.
 ::snipping3::
Ventura's attorneys argued in federal court that he has the right to restore his reputation, and that Kyle's estate will continue to profit from book sales and an upcoming movie based on the book.

Kyle's attorneys argued that if the case proceeds it will paint Ventura as someone with no feelings for the widows of war heroes.
 ::snipping3::
Video at Link


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 13, 2013, 10:13:40 AM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/texas-news/Chris-Kyles-widow-speaks-about-life-without-her-husband-defamation-suit-215302511.html
Chris Kyle's widow speaks about life without her husband, defamation suit
July 12, 2013

Video at Link



Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 25, 2013, 12:44:58 AM
http://www.kvue.com/news/Accused-killer-of-slain-Navy-SEAL-Chris-Kyle-indicted-216824311.html
Accused killer of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle indicted
July 24, 2013

Eddie Ray Routh, the man who was charged with killing Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle and another man at an Erath County gun range on February 2 was indicted Wednesday by an Erath County grand jury.
Kyle and a friend, Chad Littlefield, had taken Routh to a gun range for lessons when Routh allegedly shot them and left them for dead.
Police said Routh, 25, then stole Kyle's pickup truck. He was captured hours later in Lancaster.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 26, 2013, 10:51:54 AM
http://www.wfaa.com/sports/more/Drag-boat-racer-speeding-to-make-big-donation-to-former-SEAL-Kyles-widow-kids-217030311.html
Drag boat racer speeding to make big donation to former SEAL Kyle's widow, kids
July 25, 2013


ARLINGTON -- With a half-dozen championships in his career, Marty Logan is a star in the drag boat world. But all he has talked about lately is another well-known name.

"This is my wingman right here," said Logan, 57, as he pointed to a decal of the late Chris Kyle. "I feel safe out there. He's protected hundreds of thousands of American troops lives, I can think of a better guy to follow down the track!"
 ::snipping3::
Logan's team is dedicating everything it makes this season - sponsorships, merchandise sales, even prize money - to Chris Kyle's widow and two children. In the last 90 days, Logan and his team have already raised more than $40,000 for them.

"Our goal is honestly enough to put those two kids through college [which] is about $100,000," Logan continued. "And I'm just one guy. I'm just a one-boat racer that's doing what's right. And I'd love to have some help!"

Logan has five competitions left this year, and is hopeful for a seventh championship win. But he said he's really racing to remember Kyle.

He said he plans to present Kyle's widow, Taya, with a check in January.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on August 06, 2013, 07:50:03 PM
http://www.statesman.com/ap/ap/entertainment/steven-spielberg-pulls-out-of-american-sniper/nZGTK/
Steven Spielberg pulls out of 'American Sniper'
August 6, 2013

 ::snipping3::
Publicist Marvin Levy confirmed Tuesday that Spielberg won't helm the adaptation of Chris Kyle's best-selling autobiography as announced in May.
Bradley Cooper is set to play the former Navy SEAL sniper, who was killed along with a friend earlier this year while at a North Texas gun range. A 25-year-old former Marine and Iraq war veteran was indicted for the killings last month.
Kyle is considered the deadliest sniper in U.S. military history. At the time of his death, he was working on another book, "American Gun: A History of the U.S. in Ten Firearms."
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on August 20, 2013, 04:19:10 PM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/crime/Man-accused-of-killing-220358471.html
Man accused of killing elite Navy SEAL sniper, friend pleads not guilty
August 20, 2013

STEPHENVILLE -- Eddie Lee Routh, the man accused of killing former Navy SEAL sniper and author Chris Kyle along with his friend Chad Littlefield, pleaded not guilty Tuesday morning.

Routh, 25, appeared briefly in an Erath County court for his arraignment. He was indicted by aErath  grand jury on one count of capital murder in July, more than five months after the alleged murders. Two killings made it a capital case, which makes him eligible for the death penalty.

Routh, who was moved under heavy security from the Erath County Jail answered, "Yessir," when asked if he understood the charges against him. Chains made his ankles rattle as he ambled into the courtroom just after 8 a.m.

It was Routh's first appearance in court. He is accused of shooting and killing Kyle and Littlefield on Feb. 2 at the gun range at Rough Creek Lodge. Routh's mother, Jodi Routh, has said she asked Kyle to help her son with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder related to his military service.
Several deputies stood guard in the empty courtroom. No spectators attended. It's such a notorious case that Erath County authorities wanted to arraign him by video from jail.
They transferred him to court only when that could not be worked out. Routh's attorney, Warren St. John, entered a plea of not guilty on his client's behalf. There was no discussion of evidence or of Routh's mental health.

According to the arrest affidavit, Routh left the scene of the shooting in the truck of one of his alleged victims and confessed about the crime to his sister and her husband later that night. Routh told them he "traded his soul for a new truck," according to the document.

The trial is set to begin Oct. 21.

 ::snipping3::

Although this was Routh's first court appearance, things could move quickly now: A judge set pretrial hearings for Sept. 16 and the trial for Oct. 21. Attorneys on both sides have been ordered not to speak to the media about the case.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on August 28, 2013, 06:50:00 PM
http://www.myfoxdfw.com/story/23277622/bill-named-after-navy-seal-chris-kyle-to-be-signed-into-law#at_pco=cfd-1.0
Bill named after Navy SEAL Chris Kyle to be signed into law
August 28, 2013

A bill named after Navy SEAL Chris Kyle is set to be signed into Texas law Wednesday. It would fast-track police jobs for veterans.

Kyle and his friend, Chad Littlefield, were killed in early February at a gun range, allegedly by a veteran they were trying to help.

Before his death he was working to become a police officer in Dalworthington Gardens. But even though he was considered one of the top snipers in the country, he had to go through the same training as everyone else.

The bill will allow military veterans to prove their skills and skip out on certain parts of the police academy, streamlining access to employment.

"We have this pool of skilled people that we need to take advantage of," said Rep. Dan Flynn of Van Zandt County, who sponsored the bill.

He called it a "jobs bill." ::justice2nj2::
 ::snipping3::
The bill also allows military spouses expedited state licensing for some careers.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on September 16, 2013, 07:51:55 PM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/local/Man-accused-of-killing-SEAL-sniper-Chris-Kyle-appears-in-court-223991371.html
Man accused of killing SEAL sniper Chris Kyle appears in court
September 16, 2013

STEPHENVILLE –– Eddie Ray Routh, the man indicted for killing famed Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle and his friend Chad Littlefield, was back in court Monday for a pretrial motions hearing.
There was tight security around the Erath County Justice Center near the Stephenville town square. A convoy of three unmarked SUVs transported the 26 year-old to and from the hearing. City police closed one road to traffic while Routh and others waited for the hearing to get underway.
The proceedings lasted fewer than 10 minutes, with J. Warren St. John, the defense attorney for Routh, saying they were still reviewing evidence handed over by prosecutors. He said during the hearing that he will likely file numerous motions in the coming days, but didn't know exactly how many. 
Prosecutor Alan Nash told the judge that the state stands ready to move forward with a trial. Neither the attorneys present nor family members in the audience commented following the hearing.
Routh is charged with capital murder in the deaths of Kyle and Littlefiield. Authorities said the murders happened in February at a shooting range in Erath County.
 ::snipping3::
His trial is tentatively set for October 21, though the judge left open the possibility that it could be postponed until late October or early November.

Video at Link


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 01, 2014, 10:36:12 AM
http://www.kvue.com/news/state/243029901.html
Texas gym named after Chris Kyle to aid struggling veterans
January 31, 2014

It’s been almost year since highly-decorated Navy SEAL Chris Kyle was killed by a fellow veteran he was trying to help.

Now the Chris Kyle Gym is opening in the Texas Hill Country to serve the veterans Kyle was so passionate about helping.

When Kyle was killed on Feb. 2, 2013, his funeral become international news as thousands stepped forward to say goodbye to the most-decorated sniper in American military history.

“He was definitely a huge pillar in my life,” said Jeff Kyle, an eight-year Marine veteran and Chris Kyle’s brother.

He is pleased that enough donations could be raised to open the Chris Kyle Memorial Gym in Junction, Texas.

Before he died, Kyle was involved in a project to help veterans work through post-traumatic stress through fitness.
 ::snipping3::
Looking back, almost a year after Chris Kyle’s death, Jeff said Chris shouldn’t be remembered for how many people he killed as a sniper, but how many lives he protected doing his job.

“What bothered him the most is he didn’t know how many people he saved. That was the hardest part for him getting out,” Jeff Kyle said.
 ::snipping3::

Video at Link


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 18, 2014, 08:05:09 PM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/crime/eddie-routh-navy-sniper-court-murder-245988481.html
Man accused in Chris Kyle murder appears in court
February 18, 2014

STEPHENVILLE — The man accused of killing a retired Navy SEAL sniper and his friend at a shooting range last year appeared in court Tuesday morning for a pre-trial hearing in Stephenville.
Eddie Routh was escorted into the court under heavy guard.
The defense presented 43 motions, including a request to remove the death penalty as an option. The judge denied the motion.
The defense also asked the judge to suppress written or oral statement the former Marine may have made after his arrest. The motion was carried over to another hearing scheduled for March 7.
According to police, Routh confessed to his sister and her husband that he shot Chris Kyle and Chad Littlefield on Feb. 2, 2013 at the Rough Creek Lodge shooting range in Glen Rose. Police said Routh fled the scene in Kyle's truck.
His sister told police he told them "he traded his soul for a new truck," read an arrest affidavit.
Family members told police Routh had a history of mental illness. In an interview with WFAA, Sundae Hughes, Routh's aunt, said her nephew suffered from post -traumatic stress disorder after serving four years, including a stint in Iraq.
Routh's mother asked Kyle for help with her son since the former Navy SEAL was known to reach out to fellow veterans.
Lawyers for Routh asked the judge to not allow prosecutors to use other alleged "bad acts" by the defendant the day of the crime. But District Attorney Alan Nash argued some of the acts, including drug use before the murders, were intertwined with the crime.
 ::snipping3::
Jury selection is scheduled to start May 5.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 18, 2014, 08:14:20 PM
http://kxan.com/2014/02/18/suspect-in-american-sniper-killing-in-court/
Suspect in ‘American Sniper’ killing in court
February 18, 2014

STEPHENVILLE, Texas (AP) — The death-penalty case against a North Texas man accused of killing former Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle and another man remains on track for a May trial.

Eddie Ray Routh sat quietly Tuesday during a pretrial hearing in which a judge heard more than 40 motions from his attorneys. Routh is charged with capital murder for the killings last year of Kyle — reputed to be the deadliest sniper in the U.S. military and the best-selling author of the memoir “American Sniper” — and his friend, Chad Littlefield.

If convicted, Routh faces the death penalty.

State District Judge Jason Cashon refused to set aside the indictment against Routh, whose attorneys argued in a motion that Texas’ death penalty statute is illegal under the U.S. and Texas constitutions.

 ::snipping3::

Most of the motions concerned witness lists and details about the evidence both sides would turn over before jury selection May 5 in Stephenville, about 100 miles southwest of Dallas.

The 26-year-old Routh has been described by family as a troubled veteran who was hospitalized for mental illnesses, including post-traumatic stress disorder.

Kyle and Littlefield took Routh to a gun range in Glen Rose, similar to hunting and shooting retreats Kyle often hosted for veterans. Authorities say Routh gunned down the two men, stole a pickup truck, then confessed to family.

His attorneys have said Routh was released from a Dallas Veterans Affairs hospital against his family’s wishes just two days before the shootings.

____


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on March 08, 2014, 11:49:18 AM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/crime/Rambling-confession-in-Kyle-Littlefield-murders-at-heart-of-pre-trial-hearing-249066051.html
Court considers admissibility of rambling confession in SEAL sniper murder case
March 7, 2014

STEPHENVILLE -- Just hours after the murders of former Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle and his friend Chad Littlefield, Eddie Ray Routh gave a long, strange, rambling confession.

It was played in court in Stephenville Friday. Defense attorneys asked for the pre-trial hearing to try to keep the confession from ever being played for a jury in trial.

A Texas Ranger talked to Routh for about 45 minutes the night of the murders in February 2013. The ranger read Routh his rights, and asked if he understood. Ranger Danny Briley said Routh nodded.

Briley asked Routh why he did it.

Routh responded in a deep drawl, "I knew if I didn't take out his soul, he would take my soul next." He added, "I got tons of people eating my soul," and, "I can't sleep."

The former Marine’s thoughts meandered from a wolf in the sky, to warlords unhappy with him, to time in Iraq, and world counsels of men and women to solve problems. He was handcuffed, sitting inside an interview room at Lancaster police headquarters.  He did not ask for an attorney, but did ask to see his mother.

In court, she sat a few rows behind him, wiping away tears.

About the murders, Routh said, "a couple few shots were fired. I was right up close to them." He said he knew what he did was wrong.

Asked if he had anything to say to the families, Routh replied, “I'm just sorry for what I’ve done. We can work this out."

"So sad how it had to happen," he said.

Defense attorneys say the bizarre answers to several questions show he was mentally unstable, and unable to understand his Miranda rights.

They filed an intent to raise an insanity defense.

But Routh also admitted he'd been smoking marijuana that might have been laced with other drugs.

When the hearing was over, Judge Jason Cashon asked for a clean copy of the video because it kept dropping out. He wants to study Routh's responses before issuing a ruling on whether jurors will get to see it.

Trial is set for May 5
.
 ::snipping3::

Video at Link


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on March 19, 2014, 11:05:56 PM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/crime/DNA-testing-requested-in-trial-of-man-251051711.html
DNA testing requested in trial of man accused of killing ex-SEAL, friend
March 19, 2014

STEPHENVILLE — There were new developments Wednesday afternoon in the case of Eddie Routh, accused killer of former SEAL sniper Chris Kyle and his friend Chad Littlefield.
Prosecutors and defense attorneys have asked for DNA testing on certain pieces of evidence.
A new hearing is set April 1, when the judge will determine which items should be tested. At a previous pre-trial hearing, defense attorneys filed an intent to raise an insanity defense and asked the judge to suppress Routh's long and at times bizarre confession
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on March 20, 2014, 10:38:17 PM
http://www.khou.com/news/texas-news/Man-hired-to-protect-Chris-Kyles-widow-accused-of-stealing-her-credit-card-data-251248541.html
Man hired to protect Chris Kyle's widow accused of stealing her credit card data
March 20, 2014

MIDLOTHIAN, Texas — A man who worked private security for the widow of slain Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle is accused of making more than $6,000 in fraudulent charges on her credit card, according to Midlothian police documents.

Spencer Coursen faces two counts of credit or debit card abuse, a state jail felony punishable by up two years in prison.

Taya Kyle told authorities that Coursen was hired as private security for a book tour for several months last year. She said that during that time, he had access to the home and stayed there on occasion.

“Taya Kyle stated she believes Coursen recorded her credit card information when she asked him to pick up a computer and pay for it with her credit card,” the records state. She told police that she didn't give Coursen the authority to make any other charges.

According to the records, the first fraudulent charge of $1,430 occurred on Dec. 23 to Hertz rental. The second charge was again to Hertz on Jan. 3 for $4,814.

An investigation showed that Coursen added Kyle’s credit card information to his Hertz account in late November and that it was added after Coursen's credit card was declined, the records state.

The fraudulent charges were discovered while Kyle’s brother in law was helping her work on her income taxes, the records state.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on April 01, 2014, 09:03:51 PM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/crime/Accused-Killer-Ro-253444991.html
DNA testing possible at trial of sniper's accused killer
April 1, 2014

STEPHENVILLE — Accused killer Eddie Ray Routh was escorted into downtown Stephenville Tuesday with a heavy police presence. He then walked into an Erath County courtroom shackled, but hands free.
 ::snipping3::
Littlefield's parents, Don and Judy, sat quietly in the courtroom Tuesday as they waited for new information. Routh was in court for a motion hearing about DNA, a motion that has the potential to delay the trial.
When Kyle's truck was recovered, investigators collected animal and human hair evidence, according to Melissa Haas of the state DNA lab.
In court on Tuesday, we learned that evidence was never tested, but that could soon change.
Judge Jason Cashon ordered the state DNA lab to count and itemize all the hair evidence because of a new Texas statute. Once that list is complete, there will be another hearing to determine if the evidence should be tested for DNA.
If it is then tested, that could possibly pose an issue for the scheduled May 5 trial start date. DNA testing can be a lengthy process, and it's unclear if the procedure could be completed by May.
However, it's too early to speculate because it's also still unclear if DNA testing is needed at all.
The next hearing date has not been set yet.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on May 27, 2014, 09:21:58 AM
http://www.keyetv.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/sniper-legend-chris-kyles-grave-honored-austin-18346.shtml
Sniper Legend Chris Kyle's Grave Honored in Austin
May 26, 2014

In Austin people came from near and far to pay tribute to an American hero on Memorial Day. United States Navy Seal and sniper legend Chris Kyle was laid to rest last February in the Texas State Cemetery in Austin. In 2013 he was murdered at a Texas shooting range by a US military veteran he was trying to help cope with PTSD. Kyle is from Odessa, Texas and died when he was 38 years old, but his accomplishments will last a lifetime. In nine years of service he earned several honors and awards and even became a best-selling author. Kyle gained several fans and admirers across the country, and after he died his funeral procession stretched more than 200 miles before stopping at his final resting place in Austin. That's why so many people made a special stop at the Texas State Cemetery on Memorial Day on Monday to pay tribute to the American hero.
 ::snipping3::

Veteran Michael Davis served 19 years, and said he is using Memorial Day to teach his family what the holiday is really about. Their first stop was to salute the sniper at his grave. "It's a shame how his fate turned out, but him and his family are still touching people world-wide. It's great," Davis said. "Knowing he's right here in Austin, and to be able to pay back, even if it's just a little bit, for his tremendous sacrifice that he laid down along with his family. We are trying to instill in them the values of the tremendous sacrifice is not something to take for granted, so we are trying to get them to have that connection." With an overcast sky complete strangers remembered Kyle by putting flags and flowers at his grave. Gary English and his son even left a 6-pack of cold beer for the fallen hero.  "From what I know from his story, and what I've seen in interviews with him and read from his book; if he was here he's probably not a drinker, but he could pass them out to his buddies A cold beer that will honor the Texan native who is also American hero whose legend will never be forgotten.

Video


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 07, 2014, 10:03:04 PM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/national/Ventura-must-show-Chris-Kyle-disregarded-truth-in-book-266076611.html
Ventura must show Chris Kyle disregarded truth in book
July 7, 2014


MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — When a man regarded as the deadliest sniper in U.S. history detailed his kills in a bestselling autobiography, he also included details about a 2006 incident in which he says he punched a guy he called "Scruff Face" — later identified as former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura.

Ventura, a public figure with a tough-guy image, says the fight didn't happen, and he sued author Chris Kyle for defamation. The trial begins Tuesday, and it will be up to Ventura's attorneys to prove that Kyle's account about that night in a California bar was false — and even more difficult, that Kyle knew it.

"Ventura is going to have to prove falsity ... but the harder part is proving actual malice," said Raleigh Levine, a law professor at William Mitchell College of Law in St. Paul. "It has to do with what you know about the truth — that you actually knew that what you were saying was false or that you recklessly disregarded the truth."

Besides sorting out what happened in the bar, jurors will have to assess whether Ventura's reputation was damaged and whether Kyle used Ventura's name to make a profit.

Kyle and a friend were killed in February 2013 at a Texas gun range, allegedly by an Iraq War veteran they were trying to help. Kyle's widow, Taya Kyle, is now the defendant.

Big money may be at stake. Court documents show Kyle's book had earned royalties of more than $3 million as of June 30, 2013, and the judge already has ruled that proceeds from an upcoming movie could be subject to damages, too.

Ventura has said the case isn't about money. "It's about clearing my name. It's a lie," Ventura told The Associated Press in February.

Ventura and Taya Kyle are both expected to testify during the trial, which will likely last more than two weeks.

Ventura, a former Navy SEAL and pro wrestler whose post-political life has included hosting several cable TV shows, claims Kyle defamed him to gain notoriety for his best-selling 2012 book, "American Sniper," which describes his kills of insurgents from 1999 to 2009. A movie based on the book, starring Bradley Cooper, is in production.

In the book, Kyle describes an incident in which he claims Ventura was speaking loudly against President George W. Bush, the Iraq War and Navy SEAL tactics. Kyle, also a former Navy SEAL, claimed Ventura said the SEALS "deserve to lose a few." Kyle wrote that he punched Ventura, knocking him to the ground.

Ventura denies making those statements, and says Kyle never laid a hand on him. Kyle had maintained the events in the book are true, and the essence of what was said is accurate, court documents say.

Both sides have witnesses to back up their version of events; and attorneys have cast doubt on the opposing witnesses' credibility. While Kyle's book says "rumor has it" Ventura had a black eye the next day, photos of Ventura from that time don't show him with any visible injury, according to court documents.

In March, U.S. District Judge Richard Kyle — no relation to Chris or Taya Kyle — said the case could go forward because Ventura had offered sufficient evidence that could lead a jury to conclude Kyle's statements were false.

But because Ventura is a public figure, the judge wrote, Ventura must show "actual malice" or prove by clear and convincing evidence that Kyle knew the statements were false or acted in reckless disregard of the truth.

Levine said Ventura has a high bar to clear, and to win damages, he must also prove his reputation was harmed in a quantifiable way.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 08, 2014, 12:55:57 PM
http://www.myfoxdfw.com/story/25963162/chris-kyles-widow-defends-him-in-defamation-case
Chris Kyle's widow defends him in defamation case
July 8, 2014

DALLAS - The widow of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle goes to trial this week to defend her husband in a defamation lawsuit.

Jury selection in St. Paul, Minn. begins Tuesday and opening statements could be made as well.

Kyle is being sued over an incident he wrote about in his best-selling book, "American Sniper," which is now being made into a movie.

He said former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura spoke out about President George W. Bush and Navy SEAL tactics. So Kyle said he punched him and knocked him to the ground.

Ventura, who was also a Navy SEAL, said that never happened.

Kyle and a friend were killed last year at a Texas gun range. His wife Taya Kyle is now the defendant.

According to the judge, Ventura is a public figure so he must prove actual malice or show that Kyle knew the statements were false or acted in reckless disregard of the truth.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 08, 2014, 08:13:40 PM
http://www.startribune.com/local/266309221.html
'American Sniper' author's widow testifies as ex-Gov. Ventura's defamation case goes to trial
July 8, 2014

ST. PAUL, Minn. — The widow of "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle says he left the name of former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura out of his book because the point wasn't to call anyone out.

Ventura claims Kyle defamed him in his autobiography by saying he knocked him down during a barroom incident in 2006 after Ventura allegedly made disparaging comments about Navy SEALs. Kyle referred to the man he punched as "Scruff Face" in the book, but acknowledged in later interviews he meant Ventura.
More...


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 08, 2014, 08:17:07 PM
Jesse Ventura is after $$$ imo.   


http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/jury-selection-begin-american-sniper-suit-24462028
Jury Begins Hearing Ventura's Defamation Case
July 8, 2014

Jesse Ventura brought his defamation lawsuit before home-state jurors Tuesday in a bid to punish the estate of late "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle, who bragged in an autobiography that he knocked the former Minnesota governor out during a barroom scrap almost a decade ago.

In opening statements in federal court, Ventura attorney David Olsen said the punch never happened and that Ventura never made disparaging comments about servicemen, as Kyle claimed.

"Jesse Ventura will testify there was no incident, there was no altercation, and that Kyle made the whole story up," Olsen said.

Kyle estate attorney John Borger countered that the jury would get the real story from Kyle via testimony videotaped before his death.

"You will hear Chris Kyle testify he was absolutely sure that what he wrote about Jesse Ventura's behavior was true," Borger said. Both sides said they would produce witnesses to back their version of events.

A four-woman, six-man jury was seated quickly to hear Ventura's case, which he pursued even after Kyle was killed last year at a Texas gun range, saying it was important to clear his name.

Ventura, a former Navy SEAL and wrestler who was Minnesota governor from 1999-2003, alleges Kyle defamed him in his best-selling book.

In it, Kyle — also a former SEAL and regarded as the deadliest sniper in U.S. military history — describes a 2006 bar fight in California in which he said he punched a man, later identified as Ventura, knocking him to the ground. Kyle claimed that Ventura was speaking loudly against President George W. Bush, the Iraq War and Navy SEAL tactics. Kyle claimed Ventura said the SEALS "deserve to lose a few."

Ventura, who has hosted several cable TV shows since his single term as Minnesota's governor ended in 2002, has said his job offers dried up after the book was published and he was worried about being seen as a traitor to the military.

Kyle's widow, Taya Kyle, is now the defendant in Ventura's case. Ventura and Taya Kyle are both expected to testify.

 ::snipping3::

Legal experts have said Ventura has to prove that Kyle made up the story and profited from it, and that Ventura's reputation was hurt as a result.

Ventura said earlier this year that his lawsuit is "about clearing my name," but significant money is at stake. Kyle's book has made more than $3 million in royalties and the judge in the case has ruled that profits from an upcoming movie could be subject to damages, too.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 10, 2014, 08:41:22 AM
Jesse Ventura looking for the bucks imo


http://www.myfoxdfw.com/story/25984840/slain-author-says-venturas-name-deleted-from-book
Slain author says Ventura's name deleted from book
July 10, 2014



Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 14, 2014, 10:01:08 AM
http://www.myfoxdfw.com/story/26010510/ventura-no-bar-fight-with-american-sniper-kyle
Ventura: No bar fight with 'American Sniper' Kyle

July 14, 2014





Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 14, 2014, 10:04:31 AM
An interesting op piece....
http://www.minnpost.com/politics-policy/2014/07/walk-away-scruff-face-open-letter-jesse-ventura?utm_source=MinnPost-RSS&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+minnpost-region+(MinnPost+-+MinnPost.com%3A+Region)
Walk away, Scruff Face: An open letter to Jesse Ventura
By Jim Walsh
July 14, 2014



Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 14, 2014, 12:22:52 PM
Just my opinion, but Jesse Ventura taking a dead Navy Seal and his widow to court over this won't exactly endear him to the Navy Seals. If they treated him as an outcast before, I doubt he would be welcomed with open arms even if the trial goes his way.   I don't see how him taking this issue to trial will exonerate him one bit.  He's suing for $$$.  If somehow he goes for a settlement, I hope any money that might be taken from the Kyle's will be made up by donations.  JMHO

http://www.seattlepi.com/news/texas/article/Ventura-American-Sniper-made-him-SEAL-castout-5620258.php
Ventura: 'American Sniper' made him SEAL castout
July 14, 2014

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura says he no longer feels welcome at Navy SEALs reunions since publication of a book that accused him of making disparaging remarks about the special operations force.

Ventura is suing the estate of "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle, who was a Navy SEAL. The book includes an anecdote in which Kyle says he punched Ventura at a California bar in 2006.

Kyle says the punch came after Ventura went on a political tirade and said the SEALs "deserve to lose a few."
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 14, 2014, 12:31:51 PM
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/14/jesse-ventura-chris-kyle_n_5583974.html?utm_hp_ref=politics
Jesse Ventura To Resume Testifying In Defamation Trial
July 14, 2014

 ::snipping3::
At the heart of Ventura's federal defamation lawsuit is whether he and Kyle tussled outside the bar.

In the book, Kyle described punching a celebrity he identified as "Scruff Face," who he said made disparaging remarks about SEALs. He identified "Scruff Face" as Ventura during interviews supporting the book's release.

Kyle, who was killed in 2013 at a Texas shooting range by a troubled Iraq war veteran, said in a videotaped deposition played for jurors last week he punched Ventura that night, describing the former governor as loud and belligerent.

On Friday, Ventura testified he had no recollection of Kyle. Ventura also said he quit drinking in 2002 due to blood thinning medication that makes him bleed and bruise easily.

Ventura, a former member of the Naval Special Forces Underwater Demolition/SEAL teams, sued Kyle in 2012, contending the incident never happened and the account hurt Ventura financially.

After Chris Kyle's death, Ventura named his wife, Taya Kyle, as defendant in the lawsuit as the overseer of his estate. "American Sniper" has generated more than $2.5 million in royalties split between Kyle, his agent and co-authors.

Ventura, a former professional wrestler and actor who was Minnesota's governor from 1999 to 2003, has not specified a damages amount in his lawsuit.

The jury is being asked to determine if Kyle's statements were false and, because Ventura is a public figure, whether Kyle made them with actual malice.

The trial began Tuesday and is expected to take about three weeks. (Reporting by David Bailey; Editing by Doina Chiacu)


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 14, 2014, 12:39:29 PM
I've read the trial is expected to last three weeks.  I wonder what will come out?  I think some of it won't be very flattering to Jesse Venture.  JMHO

http://**/ci_21428278/jesse-ventura-lawsuit-navy-seal-says-he-decked
SEALs back comrade's claim that he punched out Jesse Ventura
By David Hanners
POSTED:   08/29/2012 12:01:00 AM CDT | UPDATED:   ABOUT A YEAR AGO



Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 14, 2014, 08:35:52 PM
http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Latest-News-Wires/2014/0714/Jesse-Ventura-sues-SEAL-sniper-for-bringing-his-career-to-a-screeching-halt
Jesse Ventura sues SEAL sniper for bringing his career 'to a screeching halt'
Jesse Ventura, a former Navy SEAL who turned pro wrestler who turned governor of Minnesota, is suing a fellow SEAL alum for defamation over an alleged bar fight.
July 14, 2014

 ::snipping3::
Laura deShazo, a witness called by the defense, testified a fight took place at a wake in a bar for a SEAL and she saw the former governor get hit in a scuffle, but she did not identify who struck Ventura.

"I saw Mr. Ventura get hit," she said.

Kyle, killed in 2013 at a Texas shooting range by a troubled Iraq war veteran, said in a videotaped deposition played for jurors he punched Ventura, describing him as loud and belligerent.

On Friday, Ventura testified he had no recollection of Kyle.

Ventura, a former member of the Naval Special Forces Underwater Demolition/SEAL teams, sued Kyle in 2012, contending the fight never happened.

After Kyle's death, Ventura named his wife, Taya Kyle, as defendant in the lawsuit. "American Sniper" has generated more than $2.5 million in royalties.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 15, 2014, 08:39:21 AM

http://www.myfoxdfw.com/story/26010510/ventura-no-bar-fight-with-american-sniper-kyle
Ventura: No bar fight with 'American Sniper' Kyle
July 14, 2014
 ::snipping3::
 Ventura told the jury he posed for pictures -- some of which were shown in court -- and signed autographs for younger SEALS in the bar that night, but he doesn't recall arguing with them and was not involved in a confrontation. He also said he doesn't recall seeing anyone else fight. He said he didn't know Kyle before that night and has no idea if Kyle was even there.

"I have no recollection of it whatsoever," he said.

 ::snipping3::


http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2692738/I-saw-Jesse-Ventura-punched-bar-brawl-I-didnt-WHO-did-says-witness-defending-Americas-deadliest-snipers-claim-hit-ex-Minnesota-governor.html
I saw Jesse Ventura punched in a bar brawl – but I didn’t see WHO did it, says witness defending America’s deadliest sniper's claim that he hit ex-Minnesota governor
JUly 15, 2014

* Laura deShazo was called as first defence witness in the defamation lawsuit
*Her testimony partially backs Chris Kyle's claim to have punched Ventura
*The late SEAL sniper alleged that Ventura was badmouthing the military
*Ventura says Mr Kyle's accusations have hurt his reputation



Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 22, 2014, 03:44:40 PM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/national/Jury-begins-deliberating-in-Ventura-defamation-case-268154072.html
Jury begins deliberating in Ventura defamation case
July 22, 2014

ST. PAUL, Minn. - The defamation lawsuit filed by former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura against the estate of "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle is now in the hands of a jury after closing statements by both sides Tuesday.

In his statement to the 10-person jury an attorney for Kyle's estate said Ventura has failed to prove he was defamed in Kyle's book.

Ventura accused Kyle of fabricating a story in which he said he punched Ventura in a California bar in October of 2006 after Ventura made remarks critical of Navy SEALs and the war in Iraq. A number of witnesses have backed up Kyle's version of events that night.

Kyle attorney John Borger told a federal jury in St. Paul on Tuesday that Ventura is either deluding himself or lying about that night.

He also rejected Ventura's claim that the book hurt his reputation and earning potential. Borger said Ventura's star had faded, and his reputation was hurt more by his pursuit of the lawsuit after Kyle died than anything Kyle wrote.

In his opportunity to address the jury Ventura attorney David Olson asked the jurors to use their common sense while deciding the case. He highlighted inconsistencies in the versions different defense witnesses gave, of what happened Oct 12, 2006 at McP's Pub in Coronado.

Olson insisted witnesses gave different times and locations within McP's outdoor area for the fight. Two witnesses said Ventura was wearing a Hawaiian shirt, which wasn't the case.

Olson also highlighted what he says is the difference between what Kyle told co-author Jim DeFelice in a recorded interview in 2010 versus what he said in a taped deposition in November of 2012.

On the "unjust earnings" part of the case -- the claim that Kyle profited from his claims that he punched and knocked down Ventura -- Olson said publicity about the alleged fight is the only thing that made 'American Sniper' an instant best seller. He noted that the Ventura punch was the first thing Bill O'Reilly asked Kyle about on Jan. 5, 2012 when Kyle made his first TV appearance.

The publisher asserts it was O'Reilly's endorsement of the book that made it skyrocket, not the few pages that involved Ventura. But Olson noted that following the O'Reilly interview publisher Harper Collins included links to it in press releases.

Concerning the value of the book, Olson speculated that Harper Collins has made $40 million in the book, based on 1.5 million copies sold at $26 per hard cover copy. He calculates that brings the Kyle estate's cut of the royalties to $6 million, not including what the estate stands to make from a planned movie based on "American Sniper."

Olson told Jurors that Ventura's earnings have diminished and his standing with former SEALs and Frogmen has taken a major hit as a result of the book.

Kyle's attorney John Borger said Ventura's standing with former SEALS took the biggest hit when he refused to drop the lawsuit after Kyle was murdered in 2013.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 28, 2014, 02:33:12 PM
http://www.startribune.com/local/268883971.html
Jury says it can't reach unanimous verdict in Ventura trial
July 28, 2014

The jury in the defamation lawsuit brought by former Gov. Jesse Ventura informed the judge Monday that they can’t reach a verdict, but the judge instructed them to keep trying.

“We have not reached a unanimous decision,” the jury wrote in a note to U.S. District Judge Richard Kyle, who read it aloud at a noon hearing with the jury and attorneys in the courtroom.

“We feel we will not come to a unanimous decision,” the note said.

But Kyle told the 10 jurors to “give it one more shot” and asked them to resume deliberations, noting that his instructions required a unanimous verdict.

None of the jurors spoke at the hearing, and they looked grim-faced and downcast before filing out to return to the jury room.

After the jury left the courtroom, Kyle told attorneys for both sides seated at their counsel tables to “stay close. This might not be a long afternoon.”

Jurors have been deliberating since Tuesday afternoon, for a total of about 27 and a half hours, in the suit filed by Ventura claiming that the late Navy SEAL Chris Kyle fabricated an account of a 2006 bar fight in his bestselling book, “American Sniper.”

Kyle wrote that he punched out a “celebrity” ex-Navy SEAL who was criticizing the SEALs’ role in the war in Iraq during a wake for a fallen SEAL. Ventura’s lawsuit claims the account ruined his reputation.

Chris Kyle was killed in 2013, and Ventura continued the suit against his estate and his widow, Taya, who is managing the estate.

The jury had taken the weekend off and shortly after they resumed deliberations at 9 a.m. Monday morning they requested an easel and pens be brought to the jury room.

At 11:49 a.m. a courthouse employee rolled a cart of sandwiches to the seventh-floor backroom at U.S. District Court in St. Paul. Shortly after noon, the judge began the hearing with the jurors and attorneys present. The attorneys had been called to Kyle’s chambers for a private meeting about a half-hour before the open court hearing, presumably to be informed about the jury’s note.

Judge talks to jury

During the hearing, Kyle told jurors that they should “not lower your standards,” but he urged them to continue deliberating.

He pointed out that if there was a hung jury the case could be tried again and “there’s no reason to think the case would be better tried” a second time.

“I’m going to give you one more time,” Kyle told them.

He said if they can’t reach a decision, “let me know and we’ll deal with it at that time.”
 ::snipping3::
A new trial would depend upon a decision by Ventura and his attorneys, who would have to file a motion to continue pressing the case. It would result in a new jury being empaneled and probably a different judge to hear the case.
The suit was filed in 2012 and there have been many depositions taken and numerous pretrial motions filed by attorneys by both sides and ruled on by Kyle, who is no relation to the late defendant.
 ::snipping3::
Jane Kirtley a journalism professor at the University of Minnesota and an expert on defamation case, said, “As I’ve said from the beginning, there could be a deadlock. The evidence is strongly disputed by both sides and [Chris] Kyle is dead, so he can’t be cross-examined.

“If one person disagrees with any one of the questions [posed by the judge], be it falsity, defamation or actual malice, then the jury is deadlocked,” she said.



Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 29, 2014, 04:22:46 PM
http://kxan.com/2014/07/29/jury-awards-ventura-1-8m-in-defamation-case-against-american-sniper/
Jury awards Ventura $1.8M in defamation case against “American Sniper”
July 29, 2014

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — A jury awarded former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura $1.8 million on Tuesday in his lawsuit against the estate of “American Sniper” author Chris Kyle.

On the sixth day of deliberations, the federal jury decided that the author of the 2012 best-selling book defamed Ventura in its description of a bar fight in California in 2006. Kyle, regarded as the deadliest military sniper in U.S. history, wrote that he decked a man whom he later identified as Ventura after the man allegedly said the Navy SEALs “deserve to lose a few.”

Ventura testified that Kyle fabricated the passage about punching him. Kyle said in testimony videotaped before his death last year that his story was accurate.

Legal experts had said Ventura, a former Navy SEAL, had to clear a high legal bar to win, since as a public figure he had to prove actual malice. According to the jury instructions, Ventura had to prove with “clear and convincing evidence” that Kyle either knew or believed what he wrote was untrue, or that he harbored serious doubts about its truth.

Neither Ventura nor Kyle’s widow, Taya Kyle, who is the executor of his estate, were on hand for the verdict.

Ventura didn’t immediately return a message left at his Minneapolis-area home. But his attorney, David Bradley Olsen, said Ventura felt there were “no real winners in this trial.”

“He’s certainly grateful for the verdict but his reputation with an entire generation of young SEALs may never be repaired,” Olsen said, adding, “It is a victory in the sense that the jury did tell the world that Chris Kyle’ story is a lie and was a fabrication.”

Jurors left the courthouse Tuesday via a back entrance, declining to comment to waiting reporters. The jury told the judge Monday that it didn’t believe it could reach a unanimous verdict, but the judge instructed them to continue. Attorneys for both sides agreed Tuesday the verdict did not need to be unanimous and would allow a verdict if only eight of 10 jurors agreed.

Kyle attorney John Borger said the family would consider an appeal. He faced questions about why he agreed to a non-unanimous verdict when the jury appeared close to being hung.

“That was a strategic call that seemed appropriate at the time,” Borger said.


After finding in favor of Ventura, the jury was also tasked with awarding damages for any harm to his reputation, humiliation and embarrassment. Jurors had to find that Ventura suffered an economic loss as a direct result of Kyle’s statements, or that Kyle used Ventura to profit unjustly.

In his closing argument, Ventura attorney David Bradley Olsen said he believes Kyle’s estate has earned more than $6 million from the book, and suggested that $5 million to $15 million would be reasonable compensation for what he said was irreparable harm to Ventura’s reputation.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 30, 2014, 07:36:47 PM
http://www.wfaa.com/news/local/Midlothian-residents-react-to-disgusting--269291211.html
Midlothian residents react to 'disgusting' verdict awarding Ventura $1.8M
July 30, 2014

MIDLOTHIAN — Midlothian is the cement capital of Texas and Jesse Ventura just stepped in it.
"I think it's totally disgusting," said Vietnam vet Don Radabaugh as he enjoyed a beer Wednesday at Ellis County BBQ. "He should be ashamed of himself."
The local backlash toward the former wrestler and Navy SEAL didn't stop there.
"I don't think Jesse Ventura would be welcome in Texas," said restaurant owner Dennis Deweerd.
After the fatal shooting that killed former Navy SEAL and author Chris Kyle, patrons of the restaurant raised thousands for his surviving wife, Taya Kyle, and their two children. Boat racer Marty Logan donated more than $100,000.
"Now, we have someone taking money from the widow," he said. "It's crazy."
At the Mona Leigh Studio salon, where Taya Kyle is a customer, you could hear the shock at the $1.8 million verdict and heartache for the family.
"We all care for the family," said Lorri Smith. "It's heartbreaking that they're having to deal with this."
There are signs all over Midlothian promoting a golf tournament for the American Legion Post renamed in honor of Kyle. Ventura probably shouldn't enter.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on July 31, 2014, 07:09:06 PM
(Bolded by Me)  The trial didn't clear Jesse Ventura's name.  The verdict certainly wasn't unanimous and I suppose he's settled for $1.8 million dollars, which should help him sleep better at night, right? It wasn't a unanimous decision and who the heck knows what a jury might do these days.  ::MonkeyNoNo::  I wasn't a fan of Jesse Ventura in the first place, and I feel he himself was responsible for his drop in popularity and money earning.   As far as "it has nothing to do with a widow or anything like that..." what little respect I had for him in the first place is now a negative number.  Stay classy Jesse! 

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/jesse-ventura-no-regrets-over-suing-widow-of-navy-seal-chris-kyle/
Jesse Ventura: No regrets over suing widow of Navy SEAL
July 30, 2014

Former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura said Wednesday his successful lawsuit against the estate of late Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle was about "the truth" and that he has no plans to reach out to Kyle's widow, who is the executor of the Kyle's estate, now that the trial is over.

"All I wanted to do was clear my name, and it has nothing to do with a widow or anything like that," Ventura said on "CBS This Morning" during his first post-trial interview.

 ::snipping3::

Much of the criticism against Ventura has centered around the size of the verdict against Kyle's estate, which is providing for his widow and two children. Ventura said that criticism doesn't bother him.

"Taya Kyle had all of her attorney fees paid by insurance. I did not. I incurred two-and-a-half years of lawyer fees that I have to pay to clear my name, and she had insurance paying everything for her," Ventura said on "CBS This Morning." "It was me against an insurance company."

Ventura said he will use his winnings to pay his lawyers' fees.

When asked why he thought Kyle might have made up the tale of the punch-out, Ventura called it a "sea story."

"In the Navy it happens all the time," Ventura said. "One sailor lies to another sailor. That second sailor then tells the story three more times, and all of the sudden, the sea story becomes the truth. They were drunk. They were drinking heavily, and it was just a story that happened in another bar and erupted six years later."

The dispute over Kyle's book may not be over, either. Ventura said on "CBS This Morning" he plans to "visit" the book's publisher, HarperCollins.

"They published the book and did no due diligence to find out if the story was true," Ventura said.


EDITOR'S NOTE: After Ventura appeared on "CBS This Morning," HarperCollins released a statement saying it was removing the passage about the former governor from "American Sniper."


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on November 26, 2014, 10:20:12 PM
http://www.myfoxdfw.com/story/27490636/18m-verdict-upheld-in-american-sniper-case
$1.8M verdict upheld in 'American Sniper' case
November 26, 2014



ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - A judge has rejected a request from the widow of "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle to order a new trial or toss a jury's verdict in favor of former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura.

Ventura was awarded $1.8 million in a defamation lawsuit that alleged Kyle made up claims in his book about punching Ventura after he made offensive comments about Navy SEALS at a California bar in 2006.

Ventura says it never happened. Both men are former SEALs.

The lawsuit was allowed to continue after Kyle, considered the deadliest sniper in U.S. military history, died last year.

Attorneys for his widow, Taya Kyle, say laws and trial evidence didn't support the jury's award. But the federal judge who presided over the trial ruled Wednesday that "substantial evidence" supported the verdict.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on January 30, 2015, 10:18:14 PM
http://www.kwtx.com/home/headlines/Governor-Declares-Monday-Chris-Kyle-Day-In-Texas-290366221.html
Governor Declares Monday Chris Kyle Day In Texas
January 30, 2015

AUSTIN (January 30, 2015) Texas Gov. Greg Abbott told VFW members Friday in Austin he is declaring Monday Chris Kyle Day in honor of the slain Navy SEAL sniper who’s the focus of the movie “American Sniper.”

Kyle, 38, who was reputed to have been the deadliest sniper in U.S. military history with 160 confirmed kills, and another veteran were shot to death on Feb. 2, 2013 at a North Texas shooting range.

“In honor of a Texas son, a Navy SEAL and an American hero – a man who defended his brothers and sisters in arms on and off the battlefield – I am declaring Feb. 2 Chris Kyle Day in Texas. We will commemorate his passing. But more importantly, remembering his answering of the call of duty,” Abbott said in his speech to the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars Mid-Winter Convention.

Kyle completed four tours of duty in Iraq and wrote the best-selling book "American Sniper,” on which the hit movie starring Bradley Cooper is based.

Kyle, 38, and Chad Littlefield, 35, were shot to death with a semi-automatic handgun on Feb. 2, 2013 at the Rough Creek Lodge.

Iraq War veteran Eddie Ray Routh, of Lancaster, a former Marine, was charged in the shooting deaths.

An arrest warrant affidavit says Routh told a relative that he "traded his soul for a new truck."

Authorities said he was driving Kyle's pickup when he was arrested.
 ::snipping3::
Routh goes on trial next month in Stephenville.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 08, 2015, 08:01:40 PM
http://www.kwtx.com/home/headlines/Trial-Of-Marine-Accused-Of-Killing-American-Sniper-Set-To-Begin-291201921.html
Trial Of Marine Accused Of Killing “American Sniper” Set To Begin
February 8, 2015

(http://i.imgur.com/8wUycE6.jpg) (http://imgur.com/8wUycE6)
Eddie Ray Routh (Jail photo)



Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 09, 2015, 01:58:16 PM
http://www.kvue.com/story/news/state/2015/02/09/attorneys-insanity-plea-likely-for-alleged-chris-kyle-killer/23116791/
Attorneys: Insanity plea likely for alleged Chris Kyle killer
February 9, 2015

As the trial for Eddie Routh – the man accused of killing Chris Kyle and Chad Littlefield – gets underway, there is enhanced speculation about how the trial will play out.

Defense attorneys have indicated they will try to show jurors that Routh is mentally insane.

Jerry Loftin, a longtime attorney who has handled high-profile cases for decades, says that is probably the only chance Routh has to be found not guilty.

Opening arguments are expected to begin Wednesday in the trial of Eddie Routh, accused of killing Chris Kyle. Todd Unger has more on how attorneys and the town are preparing.

"There are two kinds of insanity. If you're currently off your rocker, or off your rocker when this happened," he said.

But Loftin acknowledged insanity defenses rarely work these days. And he said the publicity surrounding the death of Kyle in particular will hurt the defense. His life as America's deadliest sniper is currently being profiled in the hit movie, 'American Sniper.'

"There is so much publicity, it takes it to another level," he said.
 ::snipping3::
Opening statements are expected for mid-week.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 10, 2015, 08:18:28 AM
http://www.wfaa.com/story/news/crime/2015/02/09/attorneys-insanity-plea-likely-for-chris-kyle-killer/23102469/
Jury seated for trial of Chris Kyle's accused killer
February 9, 2015

STEPHENVILLE — A jury of two men and 10 women was selected Monday at the trial for Eddie Routh, the man accused of killing Chris Kyle and Chad Littlefield.

Opening arguments are expected to begin on Wednesday.

Defense attorneys have indicated they will try to show jurors that Routh is mentally insane.

Jerry Loftin, a longtime attorney who has handled high-profile cases for decades, says that is probably the only chance Routh has to be found not guilty.

"There are two kinds of insanity. If you're currently off your rocker, or off your rocker when this happened," he said.

But Loftin acknowledged insanity defenses rarely work these days. And he said the publicity surrounding the death of Kyle in particular will hurt the defense. His life as America's deadliest sniper is currently being profiled in the hit movie, "American Sniper."

"There is so much publicity, it takes it to another level," he said.

::snipping3::

Prosecutors told the nearly 130 people in the courtroom that no matter what they've heard, there is a lot they have not heard yet about the case. They explained that with an insanity defense, the burden on the the defense to prove their client is or was insane. Prosecutors said there can not be a shadow of doubt, calling it a "very narrow door."

Routh's defense attorney asked lots of individuals questions of the potential jurors and whether they could require the state to prove its case. He asked the room how many of those present had seen "American Sniper," and very few hands were raised.

Another 17 potential jurors were dismissed on Monday after 19 were dismissed over the weekend. The judge said pre-trial publicity did not hamper their attempts to seat a jury, and he denied two defense motions for a continuance and a change of venue that were filed because of pretrial publicity.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 10, 2015, 06:19:18 PM
http://www.fox4news.com/story/28072717/wife-of-american-sniper-chris-kyle-to-testify
Wife of 'American Sniper' Chris Kyle to testify
February 10, 2015



STEPHENVILLE, Texas (AP) - Prosecutors say the widow of Chris Kyle, the former Navy SEAL depicted in the Oscar-nominated movie "American Sniper," will be among the first witnesses to testify during the trial of his alleged killer in Texas.

Opening statements are expected Wednesday in the trial of Eddie Ray Routh. The former Marine is accused of fatally shooting Kyle and Kyle's friend, Chad Littlefield, as the pair tried to help Routh a shooting range.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 12, 2015, 02:42:10 PM
http://www.fox4news.com/story/28094456/prosecutors-chris-kyle-chad-littlefield-shot-in-the-back
Prosecutors: Chris Kyle, Chad Littlefield shot in the back
February 12, 2015

STEPHENVILLE, Texas -
American Sniper Chris Kyle's widow was in court again for the second day of his alleged murderer's trial.

Eddie Ray Routh faces capital murder charges for shooting the former Navy SEAL and his friend, Chad Littlefield.

When Taya Kyle took the stand Wednesday, she told jurors that her husband met Routh at a gun range because Routh's mother was worried he was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

On Thursday she watched as prosecutors showed photos of the crime scene, including photos of the weapons found at the gun range where the men were killed.

Kyle was shot five times and Littlefield was shot four times. Most of the gunshots were in their backs.

Both men were carrying handguns, but they were found still holstered in their waistbands with the safety on, according to witness testimony.

Prosecutors say Routh knowingly and willingly killed the men.

His attorney claims he was in a severe state of psychosis on the day of the murders.

As the trial moves forward, experts will likely debate the role mental illness and PTSD played in the crime.

If convicted, Routh could be sentenced to life in prison.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 20, 2015, 06:40:48 PM
http://www.kwtx.com/home/headlines/Breaking-Now--Defense-Rests-In-American-Sniper-Murder-Trial-292764991.html
Defense Rests In “American Sniper” Murder Trial
February 19, 2015

STEPHENVILLE (February 19, 2015) The defense rested its case late Thursday afternoon in the capital murder trial of Eddie Ray Routh, 27, the ex-Marine accused of gunning down “American Sniper” Chris Kyle and Kyle’s friend Chad Littlefield in 2013 at a Texas shooting range.

Routh has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.

Prosecutors indicated they would call several rebuttal witnesses Friday.

On Tuesday Dr. Mitchell H. Dunn, a forensic psychiatrist, testified that Routh was in a psychotic state on Feb. 2, 2013 when he killed Kyle, 38, a former Navy SEAL, and Littlefield, 35, at a shooting range at the Rough Creek Lodge and Resort, to which the two men had taken Routh, whom Kyle was trying to help.

Routh was released from the hospital about a week before the slayings after a psychotic episode.

After Routh returned to work he thought two of his co-workers were cannibals who were going to harm him, Dunn testified.

A second defense expert, a psychologist, was not allowed to testify Thursday.

The start of testimony was delayed for about 90 minutes while defense attorneys and prosecutors argued over the admissibility of his testimony.

The defense also called Routh’s mother back to the stand.

On Wednesday, Routh’s sister testified she told her brother on the day of the killings that she loved him, but hated his demons.

Laura Blevins told jurors Wednesday that Routh was talking out of his head when he came to her house after the deadly shootings and showed her some guns.

She testified that she asked him to leave and then called police.

Blevins' husband, Gaines, testified Wednesday that he had smoked marijuana with Routh.

He said that Routh told him he couldn't trust anyone anymore and then asked "Is it just me or is the world freezing over?"

The defense also questioned Routh's former girlfriend, Jennifer Weed, who testified that she and Routh met through an online dating site and stared dating in the spring of 2012.

She described an incident that occurred about two weeks before the shootings in which Routh went into a paranoid frenzy, grabbing a knife and sword and telling her and her roommate he was trying to protect them and that they couldn't leave because "they" were out to get him.

Weed testified that her roommate was able to call police.

Officers took Routh to Green Oaks Hospital in Dallas and he was later transferred to a VA facility, she said.

When she visited him there, she said, he told her he wanted to come back, but she told him a no-trespass order was in effect and he couldn't return.

The night before the shootings she said she saw Routh smoking marijuana.

Afterward, she said, he sat on a couch and stared at a corner, apparently hearing voices.

She testified that when she asked if he was "hearing them again," he replied that he was.

Later that night in the kitchen, she turned around to find Routh on his knees asking her to marry him.

She testified that she said yes, but indicated in later testimony that the two were no longer a couple.

Prosecutors rested their case early Tuesday afternoon

The last prosecution witness to testify Tuesday was Erath County's chief deputy, who said that in the two years since his arrest, Routh hasn't used any illegal drugs, but has been taking prescribed medications, and his behavior has changed dramatically.

Prosecutors also played a recorded phone call between Routh and a reporter from The New Yorker magazine in which Routh said, "I had to take care of business. I took care of business, and then I got in the truck and left."

Authorities say Routh used two guns, shooting Kyle five times in the back and once in the side of the head with a .45-caliber pistol and Littlefield four times in the back, once in the hand, once in the face and once in the head with a 9-mm pistol.

Both Kyle and Littlefield were carrying loaded handguns, but two "old-style Western" revolvers were found lying on the ground that had been fired at targets and were empty, authorities said.
 ::snipping3::
Prosecutors aren't seeking the death penalty and if convicted, Routh would automatically be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: texasmom on February 24, 2015, 10:27:14 PM
 ::justice2nj2::

http://www.wfaa.com/story/news/local/chris-kyle-sniper-trial/2015/02/24/closing-arguments-next-sniper-trial/23928897/

Routh guilty in 'American Sniper' killings

STEPHENVILLE — An Erath County jury delivered a guilty verdict Tuesday night in the case of Eddie Ray Routh, the man accused of killing famed "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle and his friend Chad Littlefield.

Jurors alerted the judge that they were ready to present their verdict less than three hours after final arguments in the high profile trial.

Routh, dressed in a dark pinstriped suit, blue shirt and red tie, was asked to rise by District Judge Jason Cashon, who read the jury's verdict at 9:20 p.m.

Cashon sentenced Routh to life in prison without the possibility of parole.



Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 25, 2015, 09:07:13 AM
::justice2nj2::

http://www.wfaa.com/story/news/local/chris-kyle-sniper-trial/2015/02/24/closing-arguments-next-sniper-trial/23928897/

Routh guilty in 'American Sniper' killings

STEPHENVILLE — An Erath County jury delivered a guilty verdict Tuesday night in the case of Eddie Ray Routh, the man accused of killing famed "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle and his friend Chad Littlefield.

Jurors alerted the judge that they were ready to present their verdict less than three hours after final arguments in the high profile trial.

Routh, dressed in a dark pinstriped suit, blue shirt and red tie, was asked to rise by District Judge Jason Cashon, who read the jury's verdict at 9:20 p.m.

Cashon sentenced Routh to life in prison without the possibility of parole.



 ::justice2nj2:: ::justice2nj2::

Routh shot two men in the back, taking both lives.  He deserved nothing less.  JMHO


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on May 01, 2015, 08:06:01 AM
http://www.fox4news.com/story/28946736/american-sniper-widow-taya-kyles-new-book-addresses-grief
'American Sniper' widow Taya Kyle's new book addresses grief
April 30, 2015

Dallas-The widow of famed "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle says in her upcoming book that she struggled with the idea of whether her husband's killer should be executed.

Taya Kyle writes in "American Wife," which will be published next week by William Morrow, that she concluded she would be fine with either the death penalty or life in prison. "That was as far as I could go toward forgiveness," she wrote.

Kyle describes her life with the famed former Navy SEAL sniper and coping after his 2013 death at a Texas gun range. The Associated Press purchased an early copy of the book, written with Jim DeFelice, who also co-authored her husband's bestselling memoir of his Iraq tours that was turned into an Oscar-nominated movie.

Kyle and his friend, Chad Littlefield, were shot to death by former Marine Eddie Ray Routh, whose mother had asked Kyle to help him. The prosecutor decided not to seek the death penalty, so Routh was automatically sentenced to life in prison after his capital murder conviction in February.

Taya Kyle said that while she still believes in the death penalty, she also has "come around to the view that life without parole may in fact be a worse punishment than death."

Trial testimony revealed Routh had been hospitalized for psychiatric treatment and prescribed medication to treat schizophrenia. But jurors found the insanity defense mounted by his lawyers failed to meet the legal threshold: a mental illness so severe he didn't know right from wrong.

Erath County District Attorney Alan Nash told the AP Thursday that he decided not to seek the death penalty after weighing several factors, including that the jury and higher courts could consider Routh's military service and mental health records. He said it also led to a faster conclusion as opposed years and years of appeals.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on May 02, 2015, 07:45:17 AM
http://www.kvue.com/story/news/local/2015/05/01/first-look-at-chris-kyle-monument-in-austin/26731833/
First look at Chris Kyle's monument in Austin
May 2, 2015

AUSTIN -- More than two years after he was shot and killed outside of Dallas, former U.S. Navy Seal Chris Kyle's grave is the most visited grave site at the Texas State Cemetery where he was buried in Austin, yet all that marks Kyle's grave right now is a small place card with his name on it.

According to Scott Sayers, chairman of the Texas State Cemetery Committee, a family has up to two years to place a permanent marker on the grave. However, waivers can be granted if requested, and Sayers said the committee isn't concerned that Kyle's marker has not been installed yet, even if it is past the deadline.

Gilbert Beall, the artist creating Kyle's permanent grave marker, said often, it can take a family several years to decide what they want on a monument and to decide how it will look. In Kyle's case, Taya Kyle and Beall met shortly after Kyle was killed to begin working on his monument.

Beall said right away, Taya knew she wanted to use emerald pearl granite, a green granite that can appear black depending on the time of the day.

Initially, they discussed doing a three-dimensional bronze cast of Taya's hands, her son's hands and her daughter's hands on Taya's side of the marker. However, ultimately they decided to do an inlay of the three sets of hands, "so people can walk up and put their hands on her hands," said Beall.

In the center of the monument will be a carved Navy SEAL trident and the words "God. Country. Family." On the left side under Chris' name will be a bronze relief of Kyle in his military combat uniform, an image Beall worked for months to perfect.

"It's more than just working from the photos," said Beall, who used a model and former active duty combat veteran to wear clothes and equipment like Kyle wore in combat.

Specifically, the model wore a scarf around his neck like Kyle was known for always wearing and a bulletproof vest. The scarf and vest will be a part of Kyle's relief.

One thing missing from Kyle's relief? Facial hair, despite the many pictures of Kyle with it.

"He doesn't have the beard. His wife liked him better clean-shaven," said Beall.

On the back of the monument, which is within the Texas State Cemetery's requirements to be a maximum of six feet tall and seven feet wide, is a cross under the name "Kyle" etched on the top.

On the bottom of the middle section in the back is an excerpt from Chris and Taya's wedding vows: "I will love you and show you my love all the days of my life."

Beall admits this monument has taken him longer than usual but he said it should be complete and installed by the end of May.

For now, flowers and flags placed by visitors to Kyle's grave surround the place card with his name,

Once the gravestone is installed, it will be a lasting monument for a man known as the deadliest sniper in U.S. and military history.
 ::snipping3::

Video


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on May 29, 2015, 01:53:50 PM
http://www.fox4news.com/story/29185077/legislature-to-reimburse-county-for-american-sniper-trial
Legislature to reimburse county for 'American Sniper' trial
May 28, 2015

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - The Texas Legislature is reimbursing a North Texas county for costs incurred during the trial of a man who killed "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle and his friend.

The House on Thursday agreed to pay Erath County $500,000 for the high-profile trial of Eddie Ray Routh, convicted in February of murder for the 2013 double-slaying.
 ::snipping3::
The measure now heads to the governor.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on August 26, 2015, 06:58:23 PM
http://www.kvue.com/story/news/state/2015/06/18/abbott-awards-chris-kyle-texas-legislative-medal--honor/28925719/
Gov. Abbott awards Chris Kyle Medal of Honor
August 26, 2015

AUSTIN -- Chris Kyle was posthumously awarded the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor Wednesday.

Kyle's family accepted the highest military honor on his behalf at the Governor's Mansion. Kyle, known as the "American Sniper," is considered the most lethal sniper in U.S. history.

The Texas native was a Navy Seal who served four tours in Iraq. He was killed while helping out a fellow veteran.
Abbott previously dedicated a portion of Highway 287 in Midlothian, Texas as "Chris Kyle Memorial Highway" and has proclaimed Feb. 2 as "Chris Kyle Day" in Texas.

"Since its inception, the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor has been awarded to those in the State of Texas who have demonstrated extraordinary heroism as a member of state or federal military forces, and there is no one more deserving of this year's award than Chief Petty Officer Chris Kyle," Gov. Abbott said in a statement.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on October 19, 2015, 01:20:27 PM
http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/experts-free-speech-stake-american-sniper-appeal-34574573
Experts Say Free Speech at Stake in 'American Sniper' Appeal
October 19, 2015

Legal experts say important free speech issues will be at stake when an appeals court considers whether former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura is entitled to the $1.8 million judgment he won against the estate of "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle.

Kyle's widow, Taya Kyle, appealed after a jury and judge sided with Ventura in the defamation case last year. The Kyle estate is asking the appeals court to throw out the verdict or at least order a new trial on First Amendment and other grounds. Leading First Amendment scholars and media organizations have filed briefs backing the Kyle estate. Ventura says the judge and jury got it right.

The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals will hear oral arguments in the case Tuesday.
Much more...


Title: Re: Chris Kyle (38) Decorated Navy Seal - Author, Killed at Shooting Range in Texas
Post by: MuffyBee on February 02, 2016, 03:00:04 PM
http://www.khou.com/story/news/local/texas/2016/02/02/foundation-laid-for-chris-kyle-memorial-statue/79692514/
Foundation laid for Chris Kyle memorial statue
February 2, 2016

ODESSA, Texas (CBS 7) - The foundation of the Chris Kyle Memorial Statue has been constructed, weighing over 40,000 lbs.

The memorial made in remembrance of the murdered Odessa veteran contains three large pieces of limestone which can be seen at the Veterans Clinic on South Highway 191.

However, the $400,000 project still needs about $100,000 to complete the final stages of the statue.
 ::snipping3::
The city plans to have the statue unveiled in May during memorial week if possible.

To donate to the project visit the Odessa Chamber of Commerce website and click on the "Donate to the Chris Kyle Memorial" link.

http://odessachamber.com/chris-kyle-memorial/