The State of Texas Versus Mellissa
“THE STATE OF TEXAS VERSUS MELISSA” The first Hispanic woman sentenced to death in Texas and currently still on death row for Capital Murder. Released 15 April 2020 (Vito Films). Raindance 28th Film Festival 2020 .
“A sad and harrowing tale of those less fortunate not to forget a dastardly murder enquiry.” Review by Penny Nair Price.
The terrible nature of what Melissa Lucio 48, had been accused of is what the film is about and she is given a doll and asked to demonstrate how she attacked her young daughter Maria, aged two and a half, who died of her injuries. But what comes out of this tale is that maybe one of Maria’s half sisters – Alexandra actually committed the murder. Lawyers acting for Melissa could not find evidence that Melissa was violent. Melissa’s mother campaigns for her release, who was on trial for capital murder. A beautiful heartfelt poem was sent from the prison to her mother indicating her huge misery over her situation and fate. All Melissa’s many other children have also undergone hardship, homelessness and trouble and one of her sons chose to do law in response to his difficult times over his mother. Boxloads of paperwork exist over this case. Notes declare it as “the worst case of child abuse ever seen”.
Meanwhile Melissa – still in prison, has always proclaimed her innocence and refused a thirty year sentence due to that innocence and therefore stands to be condemned to death in this state. According to this documentary directed and produced by Sabrina Van Tassel with a team, who also wrote the screenplay, people jumped for joy when Melissa was given the death penalty. Most people on death row are men, it is the first time in years a woman has been found guilty. However Melissa’s case is still ongoing and subject to official appeals.
There has also been investigations into bribery at the highest points of the legal profession and names are provided. It is additionally sad that Melissa doesn’t have a lot of support even though she may be completely innocent Norma Villanvera features as a litigation specialist and knows she has a big case on her hands investigating a woman who seems more innocent than guilty. Dr John Pinkerman – Psychologist, observed that Melissa had disassociation.
Sabrina Van Tassel has made 45 documentary films mainly on socially and politically motivated matters. I feel sure Melissa is grateful to her for this film and hope justice comes to light and the innocent are recognised, not to mention the guilty punished.
Peace.
Penny Nair Price