Before the Robert Vanaman trial beings next week, attorneys on both sides gathered together one final time.
Vanaman, 40, a former Millville, NJ police officer is charged with his former wife Barbara's murder, criminal restraint, possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes, tampering with evidence, hindering prosecution and obstructing the administration of law enforcement.
He was arrested in November 2006, more than six months after he fired two bullets into his Wife’s chest during a domestic dispute inside the kitchen of couple's home.
This case has taken a long time. I am concerned about this case in particular. This is a small town. The defendant Robert Vanaman is a respected member of the community. Vanaman comes from a law enforcement family. According to sources Barbara Vanaman was afraid of her husband. As most women married to an abuser are who happens to be a police officer. rarely are reports made after a dispute. Often as in this case, supervisors may have been called to the Wedgewood Court home, but, refused to make a report against their supervising Sargent. And of course records have vanished.
This case has taken a long time. I am concerned about this case in particular. This is a small town. The defendant Robert Vanaman is a respected member of the community. Vanaman comes from a law enforcement family. According to sources Barbara Vanaman was afraid of her husband. As most women married to an abuser are who happens to be a police officer. rarely are reports made after a dispute. Often as in this case, supervisors may have been called to the Wedgewood Court home, but, refused to make a report against their supervising Sargent. And of course records have vanished.
Barbara sought the advice of a divorce attorney. She had enough of the threats and ongoing abuse by her then husband "sweet" Robert.
The defense will attempt to use psychological records in an attempt to paint a picture that Barbara had mental health and anger issues. I am outraged when I see the same song played as it pertains to those women married to an abuser who carries a badge and a gun. This case is a perfect example. The victim’s life prior to her murder should have no significance in a court of law. And yet, it will be the center of attention in this case. It does not matter what she did or did not do. The fact is Barbara Vanaman is dead.
Did she have training to properly defend herself? Answer: No
Did she have training to properly defend herself? Answer: No
Did she make Robert Vanaman pull the trigger? Answer: No
Did she go after Robert in the kitchen that afternoon? Answer: No
Did she try to leave her abusive relationship? Answer: Yes
Is Barbara Vanaman on trial? Answer: Yes
