The Lindsay Clancy trial is one of the most emotionally difficult criminal trials in recent memory. Every person in that courtroom—including the Clancy family, the jurors, the attorneys, the witnesses, and the public—is carrying the weight of an unimaginable tragedy.

During opening statements, the prosecution described Cora Clancy as a little girl who loved sparkly dresses and wearing bows in her hair. That image became one of the most memorable moments of the trial.

Since then, many members of the public have noticed Assistant District Attorney Shanan Buckingham wearing bows in her hair while presenting the Commonwealth's case. Whether intentional or not, some viewers have found this distracting and emotionally difficult because bows had just been highlighted as something closely associated with Cora.

We are not claiming to know the prosecutor's intentions. However, in a trial involving the deaths of three young children, courtroom participants should strive to avoid attire or accessories that could reasonably be perceived as symbolic or emotionally charged.

The focus of this trial should remain on the evidence, the testimony, and the law—not on personal appearance or visual distractions that become part of the public conversation.

We respectfully ask Assistant District Attorney Shanan Buckingham to refrain from wearing bows in her hair for the remainder of the trial out of sensitivity to everyone affected by this case, including both families, the jurors, and the millions of people following these proceedings.

This request is made respectfully and in the interest of maintaining the dignity, neutrality, and professionalism expected in a courtroom.

Justice should be remembered for the evidence presented—not for unnecessary distractions.