Caylee Sunshine Doll Won't Hit the Stores Yet

A Jacksonville, Fla. company has caused a stir with a new doll they are marketing. The toy is a tribute to Caylee Anthony, the Central Florida toddler who disappeared and whose remains were later found in the woods near her family's home. Her mother is currently being charged with the crime.

The "Inspirational Caylee Sunshine Doll" will sell for $29.99 and plays the song "You are My Sunshine," the same song Caylee was seen singing in a video released shortly after her disappearance. The doll is being manufactured by Showbiz Promotions. Jaime Salcedo, president of the company, says a portion of the profits will go to charity, although the charity has not been selected yet. The doll does not bear a resemblance to Caylee Anthony. Salcedo says the choice was made to avoid the doll being too morbid, although some have speculated that the dolls he bought may have been discounted.

While Salcedo claims the doll is a tribute, there is obvious concern over the exploitation of a murdered child for profit. Salcedo recently told Central Florida News 13 that "[t]his is not a get rich type of scheme. The main focus is to raise awareness for this type of crime. The doll is not even made in Caylee's likeness, she's just the inspiration."

Apparently, the blatant exploitation of a minor has not gone unnoticed by Salcedo, as sales of the doll have been suspended. A statement on the doll's website says "After reviewing the response to our media introduction of the Sunshine Caylee Doll and listening to the advice of the general public. We feel that is it best to suspend the launch of The Sunshine Caylee Doll." The company is still selling tee shirts and bracelets with the "Caylee Sunshine" moniker.

The Anthony family was enraged over the doll and her grandparents, George and Cindy Anthony, are considering legal action over what they consider profiteering of the death of their granddaughter. At no time did Salcedo meet with the Anthony family and no legal permission has been granted for the doll.

Showbiz Promotions is making a business out of headlines. They have also created a Sarah Palin doll and a Michael Vick dog chew toy.

You can see the website for the Caylee Sunshine doll here.