Former Wilson County pediatrician Deborah Mark was found guilty Friday night of first degree murder in the death of her adopted daughter in Mt. Juliet nearly two years ago.
The jury began deliberations around 3:30 p.m. Friday and delivered the verdict around 8:30 p.m.
Mark was found guilty on all nine counts she faced, including eight counts of child abuse in addition to the murder charge.
She slouched over the table in tears as the guilty verdicts were announced.
Deborah Mark was taken into custody immediately to begin serving a life sentence which is automatic with a first degree murder conviction.
After the verdict, the district attorney said he felt they achieved justice for Kairissa, while defense attorneys maintained the jury would have found differently if not for what they believed to be a forced confession by Dr. Mark.
Assistant District Attorney Tom Swink says, "My reaction would be Kairissa Mark got justice today."
Defense Attorney Jack Lowery Sr. says, "This lady... was coerced into making a 5 hour confession... and caused her a conviction... but it's a very tragic case."
Assistant District Attorney Jason Lawson says, "Even without the statement there is still all the evidence... so much proof on all counts."
Lowery says, "Yes, there was abuse, we don't deny that, but our client was not the person responsible for that."
Deborah Mark's attorneys say they are planning to appeal.
Mark's husband, Steven Mark, was also charged in the case. He is facing felony charges including child abuse. His trial was expected to start after the first of the year.
The couple has an 8-year-old biological daughter, Kiersten who initially was taken into foster care and said to have witnessed some of the abuse, now in an uncle’s custody.
Source:
WKRN News 2
NewsChannel 5 WTVF-TV
WSMV Channel 4
WZTV FOX 17
