Jerry Sandusky Hearing: What We Learned from Joseph Amendola's Press Conference

A stunning development occurred in the Jerry Sandusky child molestation case. Instead of speaking and going through with the preliminary hearing that was scheduled for today, Sandusky and his attorney chose to waive his right to the proceedings.

As one might expect, there were tons of reactions to this move by the defense. Here are the five things we learned from this surprising move, and what we can expect going forward.

Defense Doesn't Want Sandusky to Speak Often

Jerry Sandusky's entire vocal contribution to the day's events can be included in this slide, 

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"Stay the course, fight for four quarters, we'll await the opportunity to present our side."

"

Everything Sandusky says will be dissected, and rightfully so, based on what he's accused of. The football-like references will be a turn off to many. As this case is bigger than sports, the non-sports fans who are interested could easily be turned off by Sandusky still operating in coach mode.

The statement sounds like a halftime speech from a coach to his team, in a game he knows they aren't going to win.

This is precisely the reason his attorney Joe Amendola probably doesn't want him too speak often. He has not made a good account of himself in anything he has said since the allegations became public.

Amendola Doesn’t Want Allegations Reiterated with Gory Details

Another strategy employed by Joe Amendola was to prevent accusers and/or witnesses from repeating or exposing other gory details about the alleged abuse.

By waiving the hearing, it is likely the details won't become public until the trial actually commences. Amendola would love to rinse the mind of the public of the horrible actions his client is accused of.

It seems, he is hoping, time helps with that.

Defense Will Launch Vicious Attack on Credibility of Accusers

Many of Amendola's comments show what the major aspect of their defense will be. He is going to strongly attack the character and credibility of the accusers. This is not an uncommon practice from a defense team in this type of case. 

One law firm who specializes in defense of those accused of sexual misconduct used this defense successfully in over 60 percent of their cases listed.

This can be most effective when allegations come about after alleged victims have become adults. The missteps and hardships of their current adult existence are often easy targets to hone in on and use as a spring board to discredit.

It is much easier to appeal to a jury when allegations are coming from a child. Amendola seems to be banking on this type of defense.

Mike McQueary Will Be Public Enemy No. 1

Amendola mentioned McQueary's name at least twice in his statement after the preliminary hearing was waived. As the primary witness, who is not an alleged victim, his credibility will be huge in the case.

Amendola and the defense team will attack him hard. Penn State will have no other choice but to distance themselves from him permanently, as this will likely get ugly.

It is peculiar that he hasn't yet been fired. It makes me wonder if there is more to this story.

Amendola's Tactics Have Been Called Cowardice and Inconsiderate

Though Amendola's tactics of avoidance were understandable from his standpoint, they won't be looked upon favorably by the public.

In emotional matters such as this, it is difficult to put your business hat on. The strategies further support what appears to be the public consensus thought of guilt.

Many will perceive the posturing as a means to hide the truth and gain freedom through a technicality.

Amendola Refers to Accusers as "Victims"

Amendola's reference to the accusers as "victims" may draw some ire from the public as well. In his position, though it's one he obviously chose, he has no other approach to take.

This won't sit well with those that sympathize and side with the accusers preliminarily, but this is just the first shot fired in the war of credibility.