Defense: no winners in this trial

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - After the jury found Dr. James Corasanti not guilty on Wednesday, his defense team said there were no winners in the case.

The defense team provided enough reasonable doubt on all of the major charges and in attorney Tom Burton's words: "Our system of justice worked here."

"There's a family there that lost a loved one. We believe the jury understood this for what it was: a tragic, horrible accident," Burton said.

Dr. Corasanti was escorted from the courthouse to the parking ramp after being cleared of all charges except a misdemeanor DWI charge. He is now free to return to his practice full-time and may not see a day in jail.

More on the conclusion of the trial:

>> Find full details of the jury's decision here

>> Hear reaction from prosecutors, who say the jury must have bought Corasanti's testimony

>> The community gathered at Alix Rice's memorial after the decision

>> The courtroom let out an audible gasp as "not guilty" was read

>> News 4 legal analyst and former DA surprised by jury's decision

"We're hopeful he won't. The jury acquitted him of very, very serious charges and found him guilty of a crime for which most people don't go to jail. This is the only criminal conviction he has. We'll do everything we can to persuade and convince Judge DiTullio that Dr. Corasanti should not have to go to jail," said defense attorney Joel Daniels.

Burton added, "We now have an opportunity on behalf of the doctor and his family to extend condolences to the young lady who died, Ms. Rice. No one is leaving here with any great joy here. It's a time to heal and we're very appreciative that this jury did its job."

Immediately after the jury read its verdict, Corasanti hugged Burton, and told him, "Thank you for being my friend."

Burton was asked how these jurors will go back to their normal lives and jobs after this case with the possibility that many western New Yorkers do not agree with their decision. Burton said the difference between these 12 people and the rest of western New York: these 12 people heard the whole story.