Karen Steib Arnold Testimony & Transcripts

About

Karen Steib Arnold testified for the defense on Day 10 about Ross Ulbricht's reputation for peacefulness and nonviolence. A mental health counselor and longtime family friend, she said she had known him his whole life.

Lindsay Lewis established Arnold's acquaintance with Ulbricht, her contact with other families, and her discussions of his reputation. After objections to questions about others' views of him, the court allowed a reputation question under Rule 405 and permitted some leading questions.

Arnold said everyone she knew who knew Ulbricht regarded him as peaceful and nonviolent. She also described him as compassionate and gentle. The prosecution asked no questions.

Trial Record (2)

20152015 Federal TrialJan 13, 2015 – Feb 4, 2015Called by defense

Karen Steib Arnold testified for the defense on Day 10 that people she knew who knew Ross Ulbricht regarded him as peaceful and nonviolent. Her testimony rested on a lifelong acquaintance and close friendship with his family.

Day 10

Feb 2, 2015

DirectKaren Steib Arnold — DirectKaren Steib ArnoldLindsay Lewis2highlightsMentioned35lines spoken

Summary

Arnold described Ulbricht's reputation for peacefulness and nonviolence after the court allowed the question under Rule 405.

Mentioned in this proceeding.

Highlights (2)

testimony highlightArnold described closely connected families and said she had known Ross Ulbricht his whole life and remained in contact after his education.Open in transcript →

Quote“Everyone I know who knows Ross sees him as a very peaceful and nonviolent person. He's compassionate, gentle; he always has been.”— Karen Steib ArnoldStates Arnold's character testimony while identifying the circle of people whose views she described.Open in transcript →

sidebarCommunity Reputation Question and Leading ObjectionDuring Karen Steib Arnold — Direct

Summary

Lewis cited Rules 404(a) and 405 for a community-reputation question, while Turner argued that the question was partly leading.