Poutre sister's testimony was lacking

Girl incorrectly ID'd stepfather in courtroom

Samantha Poutre pointed to the courtroom audience when asked to identify Jason Strickland. (Dave Roback/Associated Press)

By Patricia Wen

Globe Staff / November 14, 2008

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SPRINGFIELD - Twelve-year-old Samantha Poutre's testimony against her stepfather was expected to be as dramatic as it was pivotal, an eyewitness account of how he had pushed her older sister, Haleigh, down the basement stairs, rendering her unconscious and, ultimately, on life support. (Full article: 597 words)