Jacks Prosecutor Calls Mother’s Home a “Prison of Torture.”

Banita Jacks, wearing a dark gray dress, looked unsteady as she rose to face the judge. She spoke quietly only to confirm she knew her rights and had chosen not to take the stand during her nine-day trial. Apparently, she was content to let the lawyers detail and debate her conduct. Anyone hoping yesterday's closing arguments in D.C. Superior Court might reveal something more about the woman at the center of this murder case will have to keep guessing.

Both sides exchanged final volleys about the reliability of forensic evidence and the credentials of witnesses. Neither side mentioned the central question: the lack of an insanity plea.

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