PDF Summary:Unnecessary Roughness, by Jose Baez

In the public eye, Aaron Hernandez was a star football player with a lucrative NFL career and promising future. But behind the scenes, he faced legal troubles that would change his life forever. Jose Baez's Unnecessary Roughness recounts Hernandez's rise from local sports talent to professional football fame—and the criminal cases and convictions that halted his career.

This book unpacks key events: the 2013 murder of Odin Lloyd, the 2012 Boston double homicide, and the transformative discovery of Hernandez's severe chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Through detailed accounts by his defense team, Baez examines Hernandez's upbringing, challenges with substance use, and struggles with mental health linked to head injuries—all while exploring how CTE may have influenced his violent actions.

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The investigation into the homicide in Boston

This section meticulously analyzes the homicide investigations in Boston, highlighting the city's initial police inaction and the subsequent investigative errors that occurred after Hernandez became a suspect. The narrative opens with an introduction to Daniel de Abreu and Safiro Furtado, two Cape Verdean individuals whose lives were tragically cut short when they were mortally wounded by gunfire in their car after leaving a nightclub called Cure Lounge on the 16th of July, 2012. Baez emphasizes that the homicides largely went unnoticed and were unsolved until they became linked with Hernandez following the incident involving Odin Lloyd. The author condemns the chaotic conditions at the crime scene and censures the officials for failing to maintain the scene's untainted state, which could have led to the contamination of vital evidence. Jose Baez examines the claim by the prosecution that the altercation was ignited by a drink that was accidentally spilled. The writer emphasizes the absurdity of the claim, taking into account Hernandez's formidable presence and the fact that the surveillance footage fails to show any discernible altercation.

Practical Tips

• Invest in a personal safety device, such as a keychain alarm or a wearable safety tracker, and make it a part of your daily essentials. These devices can act as a deterrent and provide a means of alerting others if you find yourself in a threatening situation. Practice using it so you're comfortable and quick to activate it if ever needed.
• Improve your attention to detail by creating a daily observation journal. Each day, write down five specific details you noticed that others might overlook, like a change in someone's routine or an anomaly in your environment. This habit can train you to be more observant and potentially spot critical details that could be significant.
• You can enhance your conflict resolution skills by practicing de-escalation techniques in low-stakes situations, like when someone cuts in line or takes your parking spot. By responding calmly and with empathy, you train yourself to handle minor conflicts, which can prepare you for more significant disputes that may arise unexpectedly.
• Improve your decision-making process by creating a personal checklist that requires evidence before taking action. When faced with a decision, such as purchasing a new gadget, use the checklist to gather facts like user reviews, product tests, and comparison with similar gadgets, ensuring your choice is well-informed and not based on unsupported claims.

The defense team implemented various tactics to assert Hernandez's innocence in response to the charges.

Baez offers an in-depth examination of the defense team's tactics in the Boston double-homicide trial and outlines the accusations Hernandez encountered. The book describes how Alexander Bradley, previously associated with Hernandez and engaged in the drug trade, claimed that an accidental bump causing a beverage to spill was the catalyst for Hernandez to commit the shootings. The prosecution's case was heavily dependent on the testimony provided by Bradley, which the author introduces as a foundational element of the narrative. Baez emphasizes that Bradley's immunity from prosecution was contingent upon his provision of information that was both comprehensive and accurate. The writer emphasizes the multitude of inconsistencies and falsehoods present within the accounts given by Bradley, forming the basis for the defense's strategy to question his reliability.

Practical Tips

• Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing everyday disputes or disagreements you encounter. Instead of taking sides, break down the arguments presented by each party, assess the evidence, and consider alternative perspectives. This mimics the analytical process a defense team goes through and can help you form more balanced opinions.

Other Perspectives

• It is possible that the spilled beverage incident is being used as a narrative to fit a particular theory of the case, and there may be other unexplored factors or motives involved in the shootings.
• The jury's decision to convict or acquit may have been influenced by factors other than Bradley's testimony, such as their interpretation of the law, the defense's counterarguments, or their own biases and preconceptions.
• Immunity deals can undermine the credibility of a witness, as the defense can argue that the witness has a strong incentive to fabricate or exaggerate information to benefit themselves.
• Eyewitness testimony is often subject to inconsistencies due to the fallibility of human memory, which does not necessarily indicate falsehood or an intent to deceive.
• The defense questioning Bradley's reliability could be seen as an attempt to divert attention from substantial evidence against Hernandez.

The defense team's strategy and outcomes were pivotal in the homicide court proceedings.

The book segment examines the defense team's strategic dismantling of the prosecution's arguments during the Boston trial and delves into the significance of the subsequent not guilty verdict.

The defense team exerted considerable effort to challenge the claims made in the Boston proceedings.

The book delves into the strategies of defense, emphasizing the lack of solid proof linking Hernandez to the offense and casting doubt on the credibility of the prosecution's principal witness, Alexander Bradley. The author outlines the defense team's meticulous approach, emphasizing their deliberate jury selection and evidence compilation, while recognizing the impact that widespread media coverage has had on public perception in a case that had attracted significant attention.

Questioning the credibility of Alexander Bradley, the prosecution's principal witness.

Baez's approach for the defense aimed to undermine the credibility of the witness by highlighting his past criminal activities, the inconsistencies in his statements, and his potential motives for dishonesty. Baez reveals the past incidents involving Bradley related to aggression and narcotics trafficking, allegations he vehemently denied in court and which Baez persistently questioned him about. The author underscores that the assurance of immunity from prosecution swayed Bradley to alter his testimony to align with the version of events favored by the prosecution. Baez sheds light on inconsistencies by revealing a message where Bradley admits to his lawyer that he is unsure about the identity of the individual who actually shot him in West Palm Beach, a statement that is in direct conflict with the testimony he provided under oath. He also reveals how the legal officials were willing to grant immunity to a dangerous individual, highlighting that this person had an arsenal that included an assault rifle and a submachine firearm, in their determination to obtain a conviction.

Practical Tips

• You can assess the reliability of information by researching the background of the source. When you encounter a piece of information, especially if it's controversial or influential in your decision-making, take time to look into the history of the person or organization providing it. Check for any past instances of misinformation, bias, or criminal activity that might discredit the source. For example, if a news article cites an expert, search for that expert's past statements and qualifications to ensure they're trustworthy.
• Engage in role-playing exercises with a friend where one of you presents a story or argument with deliberate inconsistencies. The other person's task is to identify and question these inconsistencies. This playful approach can help you become more comfortable with and adept at spotting and addressing inconsistencies in a low-pressure environment.
• Develop a habit of reflective journaling to explore the motives behind your own actions and decisions. At the end of each day, write down key decisions you made and explore why you made them. This can help you identify any biases or patterns in your own behavior that may be influencing your actions without your conscious awareness. For instance, if you notice you're always volunteering for certain types of tasks at work, consider what drives that choice—is it the desire to learn, to be visible to management, or to avoid other work?
• Engage in volunteer work that promotes peace and community well-being to shift focus from past negative behaviors. Look for local organizations that work with at-risk populations or focus on violence prevention and drug rehabilitation. By contributing your time and effort to these causes, you can develop a sense of purpose and contribute positively to your community, which can be a powerful deterrent to falling back into old patterns.
• Enhance your communication skills by role-playing scenarios where you must defend yourself against false accusations. With a friend or family member, create a mock situation where you're accused of something you didn't do. Practice calmly and clearly articulating your defense and providing evidence or reasoning to support your innocence. This can prepare you for real-life situations where you need to assert your truth.
• Volunteer for a local organization and observe how incentives are used to motivate volunteers, then propose alternative non-monetary incentives based on your observations. You might find that recognition or the promise of skill development motivates volunteers just as effectively as tangible rewards.
• You can enhance your communication skills by practicing expressing uncertainty effectively when you're unsure about something. Start by acknowledging what you do know, then clearly state what you're uncertain about, and explain why. For example, if a colleague asks you about a project's deadline that you're not sure of, you might say, "I know we aimed to finish by the end of the month, but I'm not certain if that timeline has shifted due to the recent changes in our team's workload. I'll confirm and get back to you."
• You can enhance your decision-making by keeping a journal where you document moments of uncertainty and the outcomes of decisions made during those times. This practice will help you recognize patterns in your decision-making process and understand how often your initial doubts were justified. For example, if you're unsure about taking a new job, write down your concerns, make a decision, and later reflect on the outcome to see if your uncertainty was a helpful guide.
• Start a book club focused on legal thrillers and courtroom dramas to discuss the moral and legal implications of granting immunity. By reading and discussing fictional cases, you and your group can better understand the real-world consequences of such decisions without needing legal expertise.
• You can enhance your personal safety by taking a basic self-defense class to be better prepared for potential dangers. Learning self-defense techniques can empower you to protect yourself in situations where you might feel threatened. For example, many community centers or local gyms offer classes that teach practical defense moves that don't require prior martial arts experience.

Highlighting the lack of concrete proof linking Hernandez to the unlawful deed.

Baez describes the defense team's successful efforts to emphasize the absence of conclusive evidence connecting Hernandez to the Boston shootings and consistently challenged the depth of the police investigation. The author questions the credibility of the prosecution's story, which relies heavily on a "firearm-centric" approach, by highlighting its conjectural connections and unlikely scenarios. Baez reveals how the “murder weapon" was a 104-year-old antique six-shooter found in the car of a young woman from Hernandez's hometown, with no fingerprints or DNA linking it to him (or anyone related to him). He clarifies that the firearm's features did not align with the description given by Bradley, who claimed to have obtained a different weapon. The author highlights the imprecision in firearm analysis, pointing out the shortcomings of the evidence presented by the experts for the prosecution, and demonstrates how high-profile cases can lead to a predisposition to find evidence that confirms public opinion.

Other Perspectives

• The effectiveness of the defense in emphasizing the lack of evidence does not address whether Hernandez was actually involved in the shootings, only the strength of the evidence presented in court.
• The police may have conducted a comprehensive investigation within the constraints of available resources and legal boundaries.
• The focus on firearms may be justified if ballistic evidence is a standard and reliable method in criminal investigations to link suspects to a crime scene.
• The age of the firearm does not preclude its use in a crime; antique weapons can still be operational and involved in unlawful activities.
• The firearm's mismatch with Bradley's description does not necessarily exonerate Hernandez, as it is possible for an individual to possess multiple firearms.
• The experts presenting the evidence might have extensive experience and credentials that lend credibility to their testimony, despite the alleged shortcomings.
• The peer review process in forensic science and the adversarial nature of the legal system are intended to mitigate the risk of confirmation bias influenced by public opinion.

The defense team worked tirelessly to achieve an acquittal in the Boston trial and to overturn the verdict related to Odin Lloyd's killing.

This section of the book explores the mental repercussions that ensued after Hernandez was cleared of charges, the efforts of his defense team to clear his name in the case involving Odin Lloyd, and the unexpected events that unfolded following his passing by suicide.

The team's rationale for their legal approach and the judgments made by the court

Baez recounts the bittersweet moments following Hernandez's acquittal in the Boston case, highlighting the blend of happiness and the recognition that his imprisonment continued because of the guilty verdict in the Odin Lloyd case. The author depicts Hernandez as being overwhelmed with emotion, shedding tears of thankfulness when the court ultimately exonerated him. Even though Hernandez faced the possibility of life imprisonment for Lloyd's murder, his legal team promptly shifted focus to contesting the verdict. Baez elucidates the legal rationale for their request to annul Hernandez's conviction, grounded in the fact that he died prior to the conclusion of his appeals. The author praises Judge Locke for his unbiased handling of the prominent case, recognizing his equitable approach in allowing the defense to present controversial arguments and ultimately agreeing with their decision to overturn Hernandez's conviction.

Context

• The acquittal was emotionally complex for Hernandez and his legal team, as it provided a momentary relief amidst ongoing legal battles and personal turmoil.
• The acquittal in the Boston case might have provided the legal team with momentum or public support, influencing their decision to aggressively pursue overturning the Lloyd conviction.
• Defense teams may pursue abatement to protect the defendant's legacy or financial interests, as a vacated conviction can impact asset distribution and reputation.
• Judges in high-profile cases must manage intense public scrutiny and media attention while ensuring a fair trial. This involves maintaining impartiality and allowing both sides to present their arguments fully.
• Allowing such arguments can set a precedent for future cases, influencing how posthumous appeals are handled and how courts view the rights of deceased defendants.
• The application of abatement ab initio in Hernandez's case sparked public and legal debate about whether the doctrine should be reformed, as some argue it denies justice to victims and their families.

The verdict of not guilty and its implications for Hernandez's future.

Baez delves into the intricate circumstances surrounding Hernandez, emphasizing his hopeful outlook on what lies ahead despite recognizing the unpredictability of his judicial predicament. The narrative chronicles the path toward spiritual growth and a positive outlook that he embraced, driven by his profound love for Shayanna and his dedication to raising their child, Avielle. He had faith in his legal team's ability to successfully manage the appeals process, which would lead to his freedom and the possibility of a future beyond prison walls.

Context

• His relationship with Shayanna Jenkins, his fiancée, and their daughter, Avielle, likely provided emotional support and motivation, reinforcing his desire for a positive future.
• Confidence in a legal team can bolster an individual's optimism about their future, as it suggests a belief in the possibility of justice and eventual freedom.
• The love for his family provided Hernandez with emotional strength and motivation during his imprisonment, influencing his outlook and decisions.
• If an appeal is successful, it can result in a new trial, a reduced sentence, or even an acquittal, which would mean Hernandez could be released from prison.

The revelation of the profound impact that chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) had on Hernandez's personal and legal struggles.

In this section, the text explores the revelation that Hernandez struggled with a degenerative brain condition linked to repeated head trauma, considering its potential impact on his conduct and legal troubles.

An examination of Hernandez's brain showed that he suffered from a severe case of chronic traumatic encephalopathy, which was determined to be at stage 3.

Baez recounts the measures implemented to protect the brain tissue of Hernandez for research purposes and the shocking discovery of advanced CTE, emphasizing the significance of these findings and sharing his personal regret for not pursuing neurological evaluations during Hernandez's lifetime. The author meticulously outlines the measures implemented to secure consent from Shayanna Jenkins-Hernandez for an additional post-mortem examination and to ensure the preservation of Hernandez's brain for studies on the chronic effects of recurrent head injuries. Jose Baez offers a critique of the Boston medical examiner's office for their insistence on retaining Aaron Hernandez's brain, despite widespread public disapproval. Baez narrates the challenges he faced in obtaining the brain, which culminated in a press conference where he cautioned about potential legal action against the medical examiner, and this eventually resulted in the brain being released for examination by specialists at the renowned Boston institution.

It was remarkable for an individual of such youth to display such an advanced stage of the disease.

The publication reveals shocking results from the examination, showing that Dr. Ann McKee, a leading expert on the disorder, ascertained that Hernandez was afflicted with Stage 3 CTE, which is one step short of the disease's most extreme form. The finding of such advanced chronic traumatic encephalopathy in a person of such a young age was unprecedented, as there had been no known instances in people younger than forty-six. Hernandez had reached the age of 27 at the time of his passing. The author emphasizes the gravity of the condition known as Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy that plagued Hernandez, suggesting it may have played a role in his rash behavior, aggression, and deep sadness. He also recognizes the difficulty in definitively linking a condition that results in progressive brain damage to certain actions or conduct, but he argues that it is a significant factor in understanding the story of the individual in question, especially when considering his decision to take his own life.

Practical Tips

• Reflect on the brevity of life by writing a letter to your future self, outlining your current aspirations, fears, and questions, and set a date to open it in the future. This activity helps you to capture your current state of mind and allows you to measure personal growth and changes in perspective when you revisit the letter.

Other Perspectives

• The use of the term "unprecedented" could be challenged if there have been other cases of advanced CTE in young individuals that have not been widely publicized or recognized in the medical community.
• While CTE is associated with behavioral changes, it is not the only factor that can lead to aggression and sadness; other psychological, environmental, or personal issues could also contribute to such behaviors.
• Advances in neuroimaging and biomarkers may improve our ability to detect CTE and its progression, which could lead to a better understanding of how the disease might influence behavior.
• Focusing heavily on CTE might inadvertently stigmatize individuals with the condition, suggesting that they are predisposed to negative behaviors or outcomes, which is not necessarily the case.

There is a chance that Hernandez's behavior might be linked to a health issue known as a progressive degenerative brain disease.

The story explores the evolution of Baez's insights into chronic traumatic encephalopathy and investigates its potential impact on Hernandez's actions, as well as considering the wider implications for football and the NFL.

The discussions centered on the potential impact that sustained head injuries may have had on the illicit actions and subsequent suicide of the ex-athlete.

Jose Baez explores the controversial topic of the potential influence of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy on Hernandez's actions, analyzing various viewpoints while firmly maintaining Hernandez's innocence in the homicide accusation. The writer acknowledges that experiencing several concussions can result in brain damage which has the potential to cultivate aggressive behaviors, impulsivity, and depression, and these conditions may increase the likelihood of engaging in criminal acts. He acknowledges the intricate ethical and legal dilemmas involved in holding individuals accountable for their actions when they suffer from a deteriorating brain disorder. He recommends a detailed and individualized analysis of every case instead of simply ascribing it to a condition known as repetitive brain injury.

Baez condemns the NFL for its persistent downplaying of head injury risks, obstructing research into brain deterioration from frequent head impacts, and offers a thorough analysis of the league's concussion management protocols, as well as disputing the claim that helmets increase the game's safety. The writer highlights the dangers encountered by participants across all tiers of the sports, from children's clubs to elite squads, stemming from the organization's reluctance to acknowledge the perils linked to repeated concussions. He elaborates on the efforts by the National Football League to discredit independent research on athlete-specific brain injuries and the financial settlements given to former players suffering from cognitive disabilities. Baez underscores the necessity of acknowledging the perils linked to brain injuries, particularly the long-term degenerative brain condition often found in athletes, and urges everyone from family members and mentors to sports players themselves to carefully consider these risks before engaging in high-contact sports.

Practical Tips

• Encourage open conversations about mental health by hosting informal virtual meetups where participants can discuss the impacts of physical health on mental well-being. Create a safe space where people can share personal experiences, discuss the stigma around mental health, and learn about the connection between physical injuries and mental health conditions. This could be done through platforms like Zoom or Clubhouse, where you invite guest speakers such as psychologists or neurologists to provide expert insights.
• You can protect your brain by wearing a helmet during activities that pose a risk of head injury, such as cycling, skateboarding, or skiing. By doing so, you minimize the chances of concussions that could lead to long-term brain damage. For example, invest in a high-quality helmet that meets safety standards and make it a habit to wear it every time you engage in potentially risky activities.
• Encourage open discussions about concussion symptoms with friends and family. If you're involved in team sports or have children who play, create a culture where talking about hits to the head and potential concussion symptoms is normalized. This can be as simple as starting conversations post-game to check in with each other or setting up a group chat where players can report how they're feeling after practices or matches.
• Start a conversation with family members about the complexities of accountability and brain disorders. Use a family gathering as an opportunity to discuss how you all might approach situations where a loved one's actions are affected by a cognitive condition. This can help establish a shared understanding and prepare for any future decisions that may need to be made collectively.
• Use a decision tree when faced with complex situations to map out all possible factors and outcomes. This helps you avoid jumping to conclusions based on past experiences. For instance, if you're considering a career change, a decision tree can help you visualize the impact of various factors like industry stability, personal interest, and financial implications, leading to a more personalized analysis.
• Opt to support alternative recreational activities that emphasize safety and brain health, such as non-contact sports leagues or brain games. By choosing to participate in or encourage others to engage in these activities, you contribute to a culture that prioritizes long-term well-being over high-risk entertainment.
• Start a dialogue with local sports organizations about safety practices by drafting a letter or email that expresses your concerns and suggests a review of current protocols. Use data and examples from sports that have implemented successful safety measures without over-reliance on helmets to encourage consideration of diverse strategies.
• Consider volunteering for organizations that advocate for athletes with cognitive disabilities. This hands-on approach allows you to contribute directly to the cause and understand the real-world implications of cognitive impairments. You might help organize local fundraisers or support groups, providing practical assistance and raising awareness in your community.
• You can create a simple symptom diary to track any head impacts and subsequent feelings or changes in behavior. Keep a small notebook or use a note-taking app on your phone to jot down dates, activities that led to head impacts, and any symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or changes in sleep patterns. This personal record can help you recognize patterns and decide when to seek medical advice.
• Engage in simulations or virtual reality experiences that demonstrate the impact of high-contact sports on the body. By using VR technology, you can experience a simulated environment that shows what happens during collisions or falls in sports like rugby or football. This immersive experience can provide a visceral understanding of the risks involved without actual physical participation.

The deep-seated effects of Hernandez's passing on his relatives and legal advisors.

This segment of the narrative explores the mental and emotional strain experienced after Hernandez passed away, underscoring Shayanna Jenkins-Hernandez's resilience and the steadfast dedication of the attorneys to protect his legacy.

Shayanna Jenkins-Hernandez's steadfast loyalty to Hernandez, along with the challenges she faced

Baez emphasizes Shayanna's steadfast loyalty to Hernandez, noting her strength and ability to endure significant hardship. The author describes the devastating moment he had to break the news of Hernandez's suicide to Shayanna, which occurred shortly after he was cleared of charges in the Boston double-homicide case. He describes her unwavering commitment to clearing his name and her determination to provide their daughter, Avielle, with a supportive and stable environment during the overwhelming public attention and criticism that followed. The author highlights the difficulties Shayanna encountered as she coordinated funeral arrangements with Hernandez's mother, Terri, shedding light on their strained relationship. He also praises Shayanna for her decision to donate Hernandez's brain to a research facility focused on studying the complexities of brain injuries caused by repeated trauma.

Shayanna exhibited unwavering devotion, exerting herself relentlessly to secure Hernandez's liberation and ensuring their daughter Avielle received the necessary support.

Baez emphasizes Shayanna's unwavering support throughout Hernandez's legal challenges, noting her choice to downsize their living situation by selling their large home and relocating to a smaller dwelling in Rhode Island, all in an effort to support him and shield Avielle from public scrutiny. The author portrays Shayanna's frustration as she observed how family members of the accused distanced themselves after his apprehension on charges of taking Odin Lloyd's life. Baez reveals how the prosecution aimed to exploit Shayanna's loyalty by exposing intimate aspects of Hernandez's personal life, specifically his sexual orientation, in an effort to sow division within their relationship. Shayanna remained steadfast in her devotion to Hernandez, persisting even beyond his death.

Context

• The legal proceedings and media coverage had a profound impact on Shayanna and her family life, requiring her to make difficult decisions to protect her daughter and maintain stability.
• Moving to a smaller home in Rhode Island might have been a strategic decision to avoid media attention and provide a more private environment for their daughter, Avielle, during a tumultuous time.
• The stress of a legal battle can strain relationships, and the lack of familial support can lead to increased psychological pressure on those who remain supportive.
• In high-profile cases, the prosecution may use personal details to undermine the credibility or stability of the defendant's support system, aiming to weaken the defense's case by creating personal conflicts.
• Hernandez's death by suicide in prison led to the abatement of his conviction under Massachusetts law at the time, which Shayanna had to address in terms of its implications for his legacy and their family.

The reaction from Hernandez's legal team following his passing and their continuous efforts to safeguard his legacy

The author details how the legal team was profoundly impacted by Hernandez's absence, highlighting their commitment to honor his memory by ensuring his brain was preserved for research and their relentless pursuit to clear his name.

The collaborative effort aimed to preserve the brain tissue of Hernandez for research purposes while also striving to restore his good name.

The team was profoundly shocked and could hardly believe it when they found out that Hernandez had taken his own life, particularly as he had just been acquitted in Boston and seemed optimistic about his future. He recounts his feelings of regret and self-blame as he navigated the complexities of the autopsy process and made efforts to secure Hernandez's brain for analysis of chronic traumatic encephalopathy. The author describes the meticulous efforts of the defense team to undermine the verdict that attributed responsibility to Hernandez for the termination of the life of Odin Lloyd, arguing that his death before his appeal concluded warranted the dismissal of the charges. Baez portrays the team's unwavering commitment to justice and their satisfaction with the ultimate reversal of the decision, concluding with a powerful statement about the inherent unfairness of holding a person accountable for actions potentially resulting from CTE.

Context

• In some jurisdictions, if a defendant dies before their appeal is heard, their conviction can be vacated, meaning legally it is as if the conviction never occurred.
• Aaron Hernandez was a former NFL player for the New England Patriots, whose career was overshadowed by legal troubles, including a conviction for the murder of Odin Lloyd.
• The process of securing a brain for CTE analysis involves legal, ethical, and medical considerations, including obtaining consent from the family and ensuring proper preservation of the tissue.
• The defense team argued that Hernandez's actions could have been influenced by CTE, which might have affected his behavior and decision-making, potentially mitigating his culpability.
• The case drew significant media attention, influencing public opinion about Hernandez, the NFL, and the responsibility of sports organizations in addressing player health issues.
• Increased awareness and advocacy efforts aim to improve understanding of CTE, promote research, and ensure that affected individuals receive appropriate support and consideration in legal contexts.