[djacq75]

No, it went like this; I will edit as I get more information for the timeline.

Crystal was 12 and Matthew 19.

Crystal's mom is concerned about them spending too much time together.

Dec. 2003: Crystal turns 13. At some point in this area, the two begin a sexual relationship. (Matthew, incidentally, was not Crystal's first time.)

Sep. 2004: Crystal's mother gets a restraining order.

Dec. 2004: Crystal turns 14.

Dec. 2004: Crystal discovers she's pregnant.

May 2005: The parents agree to get the kids married, which cannot be performed in Nebraska; they marry in Kansas.

May-Jul 2005: Some people in town bring the case to the attention of the Richardson County DA, Jeffrey Goltz, who passes on the case.

Jul 2005: The state attorney general overrules Goltz, files charges.

Aug 2005: Samara Koso born.

Dec 2005: Matthew acccepts plea bargain.

Feb 7 2006: Matthew sentenced to 18-30 months.


Now, I don't think 14 year olds getting married is the optimal situation. But in this case it was the least bad option, and these people's attempt to make something of their lives has been wrecked by a grandstanding demagogue. It's an absolutely contemptible abuse of power, and brings to mind a definition I once read:

politics (n.) from poly-, meaning "many", and ticks, meaning "bloodsuckers."