Most Powerful Moments from Parkland Shooter Sentencing

Before the judge locked the Parkland gunman in prison for life, victims' family members shared powerful words with the court. The Law&Crime Network's Jesse Weber recaps some of the most powerful moments from their testimonies.
Listen to Law&Crime's Sidebar Podcast on Apple & Spotify:
Apple: apple.co/3wMgRgB
Spotify: spoti.fi/3wITe7b
Host:
Jesse Weber: / jessecordweber
LAW&CRIME SIDEBAR PRODUCTION:
KZbin Management - Bobby Szoke
Podcasting - Sam Goldberg
Video Editing - Logan Harris
Guest Booking - Alyssa Fisher
Social Media Management - Kiera Bronson
#ParklandShooting #LawAndCrime
STAY UP-TO-DATE WITH THE LAW&CRIME NETWORK:
Watch Law&Crime Network on KZbinTV: bit.ly/3td2e3y
Where To Watch Law&Crime Network: bit.ly/3akxLK5
Sign Up For Law&Crime's Daily Newsletter: bit.ly/LawandCrimeNewsletter
Read Fascinating Articles From Law&Crime Network: bit.ly/3td2Iqo
LAW&CRIME NETWORK SOCIAL MEDIA:
Instagram: / lawandcrime
Twitter: / lawcrimenetwork
Facebook: / lawandcrime
Twitch: / lawandcrimenetwork
TikTok: / lawandcrime
LAW&CRIME NETWORK PODCASTS: lawandcrime.com/podcasts/
SUBSCRIBE TO ALL OF LAW&CRIME NETWORK KZbin CHANNELS:
Main Channel: / @lawandcrime
Law&Crime Shorts: / @lawandcrimeshorts
Channel B: / @lawandcrimetrials
Channel C: / @lawandcrimebodycam

[@lorilouwho6804]

Who says “No one in this courtroom had to endure what we had to endure” To a room full of families with dead children and siblings?? Unbelievable

[@mobileasaurus]

The families didn't endure what the defense did. And the defense didn't endure what the families did.

[@The_Chad_Davis]

@@mobileasaurus Yeah, God forbid anyone else should experience the fame, money, book deals, new promotions that the defense lawyers will "endure" after this sick side show of 'Justice'..

[@XantaliX]

A very tone deaf, aloof, narcisistic person I guess. I was disgusted by them saying that.

[@peanuts1173]

The Douchbag chief public defender Weeks said that. That whole table of lawyers are so unprofessional and inappropriate.

[@sci-filover7541]

No one should be hated like this. Maybe we are mistaken.

[@jacobbemis5895]

The worst was when the public defender said " nobody in this court room had to endure what what we had to endure".

[@cheneytardio]

I gasped! The gall.

[@jctai84]

@@wwis8021 it’s that one jury that voted against the death penalty, not the judge. The court need unanimous vote for death sentence from the juries.

[@jacobbemis5895]

@@wwis8021 if jury votes for the death penalty the judge could change it to life, but if jury votes life she can't change it to death. P.s. Darrel Brooks should've received the death penalty.

[@Hotlux66_]

@@jctai84 usually the judge has the last word

[@Al-kd6hv]

@@wwis8021 The judge was not able to give him the death penalty. Please do some research before you say something like that, it will stop you next time from looking so ignorant.

[@wonderland4515]

I fully support the judge and how she reacted to the situation. She saw right through the defense lawyers' BS and it's so disgusting that they were trying to make this trial about THEIR children who are at home safe and alive.

[@youngmoney4313]

That's not what they were insinuating. The victims families were putting guilt on the defenses team for even representing a murder who took lives of children. The defendants families even proposed a rhetorical question of "what would you do if this happened to your children" or something along those lines. The defense team waited until the proper time, and rightfully asked that the statements from the families don't include the lawyers personal lives A.K.A their family members, but more specifically their children. When the judge dismissed the notion, that was the first line of attack. She insinuated the comment wasn't made, and how her observation skills are more elite than the lawyers and how she "would of heard it", giving the impression the lawyers were making it up or being over-dramatic. But here's the kicker that the unprofessional Judge knew, It's all transcribed and documented. They could of took the extra 5 minutes, looked back and saw that those comments were indeed made, and respectfully asked for innocent peoples family to not be included. When the Defendant who was rightfully offended by the judges dismissal, simply re-iterated what was said to them, the Judge lost her mind and said "DONT MENTION MY CHILDREN!"...... but that's what the Lawyers were requesting too..... This was one of the most emotional decisions I have seen from an alleged professional Judge. She looked like a goofy, she was 100% in the wrong, and I bet she regrets how she handled the situation, deep down or on surface.

[@imjustwell9947]

@@youngmoney4313 nice blindfold.

[@youngmoney4313]

@@imjustwell9947 Really shows how deep you can construct a counter argument when you can only provide 2 words. I don't care if those lawyers are representing a murderer, their human rights should be respected and their children should not be in the line-fire. End of story. There is no justification for this.

[@imjustwell9947]

@@youngmoney4313 i didnt plan to change your mind, and i don’t plan on it. just left a comment acknowledging willful ignorance

[@youngmoney4313]

@@imjustwell9947 You don't have to change someone's mind to be articulate. And this is a public thread where possible thousands of others will view this comment thread and read 2 people with different opinions sharing their views. If you wanna take the lazy route and throw shade at someone who has done nothing to offend you, then be the smaller person lol idc

[@nikkirenee9428]

The disrespect these lawyers showed to the families and the judge was insane. Idk how they are still lawyers honestly.

[@almas3427]

These families are disgusting and sadistic. They know this child is mentally ill and took mind altering medications.

[@jerickaevans]

@hh7777 it’s not. Their job is to be professional and represent their client in a positive light so that people feel for him. They completely did the opposite.

[@juliearien4679]

​@hh7777 you didn't get the point. They have to represent their clients without breaking the rules of the court room aka showing disrespectful attitude. They should defend their client at all cost but they should defend in the appropriate way. That's their job. And if they are not doing this, They are not doing their job. Just like that defense lawyer in Amber heard case.

[@poesia-com-cafeina]

That judge was a complete b*tch, on a power trip just to compensate for her low self esteem

[@jamesmata2945]

Who would willingly take up his case?

[@barbarakiser5622]

No one can be angry with what the victims families said. I cannot imagine the pain and agony they must feel. My heart and prayers go out to them.

[@annmarieknapp2480]

I would have said the worst, most vile things I can think of to this monster. Problem is it likely doesn't hurt him. Psychopaths don't really feel pain or get disgust. It's so awful that he could rob these families of their children.

[@timjackson4533]

Wrong

[@lica1598]

Exactly! You can't censor their voices!

[@sv6775]

🙏🏾❤

[@aleesharenea1477]

@@timjackson4533 what if that monster killed your kid what would you think??

[@stephaniefreeman7109]

As the wife of a criminal defense attorney I am shocked and ashamed at the behavior of the defense team. The female attorney putting her middle finger on her cheek? She deserves nothing less than disbarment. That was beyond unprofessional. As was the attorney who alleged the defense team had to ‘endure’. Believe me, the legal community knows what type of attorneys they are. Disgusting and cheap.

[@wokeuptomorrow4533]

@@valerierodger7700 agreed 100% . It doesn't help when families say such dark things to the perpetrator. Only fuels flames of hate and retaliation, and I'm sorry but it's the opposite of healthy, the opposite of healing. Not to mention turning the courtroom into and emotional reality show because ppl want to see the meltdowns and drama.

[@peacehappyb237]

@@valerierodger7700 They have a choice to not gaslight the audience. Like when the defense lawyer said that crime wasn't the worse of the worse because he was mentally ill- totally gross. They got what they put out.

[@WarandFlame]

Yes absolutely disgrace to a court of law.

[@jenniferoviawe]

🙄🙄🙄 🎻 🎻 🎻 🎵 🤫. Bringing up your marital stautes with a lawyer doesn't elevate your opinion 🤔.

[@MariaMartinez-hg6ec]

he's not mental he knows what he did and what going on in the court room watch him turn his head when they talking

[@korvidai]

The mother who spoke of having to listen to “the screams and the howling” of the other families inside the hotel… The horror of those hours must have been overwhelming. To hear others being consumed by their grief and knowing you might be next… One of the worst things imaginable. Truly.

[@lilpoohbear653]

and yet, the, so called, defense team thought they endured "more than anyone in this courtroom"!!! So sickening!!!

[@jeffmccrobie7682]

It makes me sick how lawyers can defend someone like this. These families have every right to speak for their deceased loved ones

[@b.o.3815]

i agree with you but for the justice system to be fair defense attorneys must do everything they can to defend the client. However what these attorneys do is disgusting. You don't have to use these disgusting tactics to be a good defense lawyer no matter who your client is.

[@Trevorspam]

It’s their job. They don’t enjoy it either

[@darrenhenderson6921]

@@Trevorspamthey're always dreaming about getting guys off.

[@DangerouzDillon]

Ive heard from some who decide to defend those kind of people dont enjoy it, but they do it to guarantee everyones right to a fair trial. Some of those lawyers are slimy though, as if its a game to them.

[@darrenhenderson6921]

@@DangerouzDillon I honestly find prosecutors worse, a defence lawyers job is to promote their clients human rights, and achieve a result which is in thier best interest, a prosecutor can know of evidence that could go as far as to be enough to convict someone else, however if they are trying to get thier man, they don't care, I'm sure in a career length that a prosecutor will lock up more innocent people than a defence lawyer getting crooks off the hook, when people are found not guilty it's normally because they aren't guilty.

[@nancynagy2384]

Unbelievable. These parents have endured months of suffering and staying quiet per court order. They have every right to express their feelings no matter how harsh. The Defense can dish it out but can’t except it. My PRAISE to all the FAMILIES

[@diazcamposalizadaniela4636]

They have endured almost 5years of pain 😔💔

[@DisWldFrk90]

And the defense will simply move onto the next case and move on from whatever humiliation they felt. These families will still be enduring pain for the rest of their lives. A few moments of humiliation is nothing compared to what the families have gone through.

[@Spartan-oj9dc]

It is interesting how court cases operate in America . Many European countries like UK can't televise such high profile cases , this is now changing and families of the victims of such atrocities can't confront the convicted in the court . What they have done here in Florida is a good idea , it won't take away the unbearable pain these families are going through but hopefully it can give some closure no matter how small it is

[@Spartan-oj9dc]

@@DisWldFrk90 I don't want to put all blame on the defence attorneys , if you are a criminal attorney your job will involve as part of your career the defence of heinous criminals who's guilt is already assumed , but the american justice system is due process . The families are in a lot of pain and so naturally they will want to lash out at the defence attorneys. In most other countries and in other parts of the United States relatives of victims are not allowed to express their emotions to the defence attorneys or the convicted criminal. It was allowed in this case

[@DisWldFrk90]

@@Spartan-oj9dc I'm not expert on certain states of course, but do you happen to know what states it is where a victim can't express their emotions to the criminal in their victim impact statement? I would love to research that and find out the reason why that state chose that as all the cases I know it was allowed as the U.S. doesn't look at criminals too fondly and thinks they deserve to have whatever angry emotions the victims families are feeling yelled in their face as long as they don't physically attack them. The families didn't always do it of course, but I don't personally know a case where they haven't allowed a family member to make an emotional victim impact statement to address the killer so I'd love to have reference for cases where it wasn't allowed for research if you know where this is the case if you please!

[@dianejohnson7212]

The judge was much nicer than I think she needed to be.

[@JayR20206]

True

[@kingayy9267]

What good would being mean/rude to Cruz have done?

[@caade_1967]

If the judge is rude the defendant can claim favoritism and hurt the judges credibility

[@loukaspappas8476]

The judge is not allowed to take sides. No matter how obvious a crime is or if the guy has admitted to his crime. Because then it’ll be mistrial

[@dianejohnson7212]

I was talking about how she treated the attorneys that were being rude to her

[@torixmc3957]

Their reactions aren’t dramatic, they’re actually restrained. These individuals feel so much rage, anger, and resentment towards the shooter, and it will take years for them to forgive if they do choose to. Anger like this does not just go away.

[@tuftedcoma1842]

That's the thing. when people go through traumatic stuff like this and testify in court its extremely hard too. i feel like people don't give enough respect to those who go through the pain to tell there story, much respect.

[@alimurray1915]

That mother was incredible. She said exactly what most people were feeling. I too hope he is someone's boy toy in jail.

[@SusieQ1971]

I think she was one of the teachers at that school but yes loved her speech.

[@sherryfender2525]

@@SusieQ1971 She is the mother of one of the teachers that got killed, Scott Beigel

[@SusieQ1971]

@@sherryfender2525 OK

[@garethharding8035]

He won't be they don't put such high profile cases especially when they are already a nazi in the general population. As they'll risk them being even more radicalised

[@yummycookie3429]

The mother of the geography teacher is on fire. She could not have said it any better. God bless her 🌿

[@kinky_Z]

Yes... her words throughout the sentencing hearing were so clear and perfect... an incredible woman!

[@anlace3447]

she is a violent nutcase, like most of them.

[@nancynorton2088]

Yeah, there was no God in her words. Just hate. Not impressed.

[@yummycookie3429]

@@nancynorton2088 it's easy to judge people. I think your brain is lacking something. This venue is not for the likes of you. Go beg somewhere else. You need to grow up 👎

[@nancynorton2088]

Not going anywhere, lady. Your pea sized mentality is partly why the world is so effed up. You are not bright and have zero sophistication. I can play this game too. I will express my thoughts in however way that I choose and will not be censored by someone with your mental bandwidth.

[@marcusreins6679]

It's so sad that the last mom lost her daughter on her birthday. For the rest of her life, her birthday will mark yet another year that's she's been without her daughter. I can't even imagine

[@rebeccacarter7972]

That’s insult to injury in possibly the most profound way. I hope she can find a way to find peace one day.

[@ryvi6887]

I've had family go to prison, they're not without justice in there. There are men who have redeemed themselves, changed for the better that would relish the opportunity to get their hands on him. Even the sick ones with some moral compass know that kids are off limits. I can't wait to see him on the news again for the last time.

[@michael5654]

No women, no kids

[@danajones5358]

You suck.

[@mitsverdi5832]

That's right ! Jeff Dahmer did not last long in jail

[@kingayy9267]

@mits Verdi Because he acted obnoxiously toward the other prisoners. As long as Cruz acts right and doesn't disrespect anyone, he'll be fine. No one in prison is executing their fellow prisoner based on morals.

[@inesfi66166]

@@kingayy9267 shhuuu. Let's them fantasizing about the gentleman's club called jail/prison.

[@tinalouise4327]

The middle finger is the moment the defense team lost any public sympathy. At that point the victims deserve to say anything they wanted to the defense Team

[@brooked.9395]

Nobody on that defense team wanted to be there, though. And, by law, Cruz is entitled to a defense....especially when the death penalty is on the line. If he hadn't been given fair representation, the sentencing could have been questioned. So, why direct your feelings about Cruz to the people who were forced to defend him?

[@bk341]

@@brooked.9395 yeah this is such a clown comment. defense team burner account.

[@Beadledom2024]

​@@brooked.9395 The defense team giggled and commiserated with that pos, him smiling along with them, like they were having BudLights at the pub after work. For 5 years they treated the victim families with open hostility and a complete lack of humanity. Multiple impact statements referenced an understanding they had a hard job to do, but that they didn't have to loose their humanity to do it. So don't tell me they didn't enjoy their experience, that they suffered for our great judicial system for everyone deserves a worthy defense. Your maudlin is irrelevant to the reality of this case, which you clearly didn't actually follow. Their participation in this trial is the underlined and highlighted item on their resume now. You heard the disgust from the parent admonishing the defense for planning a book tour! Wheelers children were NOT "threatened" by aplny parent. One At least... at least, the Florida state licensing board has now opened an investigation into Tamara Curtis for her behavior flipping off the cameras in the courtroom with that pos and her laughing and joking about this indignity to the court. Hopefully she will be admonished where it hurts her, where she will have that smug wiped off her face, by her license being suspended or revoked.

[@isay207]

The defense team choose their job

[@jayden763]

the defense team was being so immature its honestly sickening

[@Kailiria]

Scott's mom is the definition of mama bear. She meant every word she said and her speech had me stuck to my screen. It was so powerful.

[@Harry-bn5mp]

Not it wasn't. Just dying that because people died

[@Kailiria]

@@Harry-bn5mp Absolutely

[@slinking2305]

@@Harry-bn5mpshut up

[@tim7052]

I don't think that Judge will ever forget those hugs - as an example of true humanity and strength of character. Peace, light, and love to all those who suffered the loss or injury to a loved one in this case. Respect! 👍

[@peri3818]

Love that the judge let the victims loved ones were able to express themselves. That is the start of healing at least as much as they could with this tragedy.

[@papasmurf555]

She resigned for her terrible unprofessionalism and heavy bias.... *GOOD RIDDANCE!!!!*

[@crimatized5208]

@@papasmurf555I think you are a killer or a potential killer cos why are you defending this murderer?

[@papasmurf555]

@@crimatized5208 Nope not even close

[@mrs.creepypasta7768]

The judge did beautifully and I wish she hit the defense with " how do you think the parents of the victims feel?"

[@almas3427]

Are they mentally ill and on mind altering medications? They are disgusting and sadistic

[@MangoTroubles-007]

We All know those liberal females on the jury were the ones bias to the death penalty

[@kenziepanek8853]

Hugging the judge at the end brought me to tears . Those brave family’s and the loss . I’m speechless

[@ruannebettnodiva9378]

Hugging the judge at the end brought me to tears. Those brave family's and the loss. I'm speechless

[@strongman3355]

The lawyer is bonkers when he said ,"No one in this courtroom had to endure what we had to endure". He said it as if he had undergone more than the victims and their families. Such lawyers should be subject to disbarment because their behaviour is unprofessional if they can't comprehend the jury's words to sit down and go off.. Their words and actions ruffled her feathers and it's comprehensible.

[@papasmurf555]

Nope wrong

[@El_Bartto]

You kill 17 people and still don't get the death sentence?? That's wild!

[@gena4638]

I've never seen a more narcissistic group of defense attorneys in my life. I hope this trial is a catalyst for change...a change in the laws regarding school shootings and the legal ramifications for the perpetrators of such events. Like so many parents said: If THIS doesn't deserve the death penalty then what does?!?

[@rebeccacarter7972]

So many drawn to the law prosfessions are socio/psychopaths and these were definitely in that group.

[@joshradson2649]

The defendant's lawyers were simply posing a question. Why are the victims' families allowed to bring venom into the court room against the defendant's lawyers, but not the judge? Are you saying the Judge is more important and criminals shouldn't have a lawyer? This is type of behavior that is not reflecting well on our criminal justice system. The judge is basically implying that no venom shall be put against her, but lawyers you don't like are free game.

[@joshradson2649]

@@rebeccacarter7972 Okay, guess we don't have defendant lawyers. What exactly are you proposing?

[@Dolcevita_bakes]

The woman with the British accent speaking about how she sat in the Marriott hotel for hours hearing how she had to listen to others screaming and crying while waiting to find out where her daughter is. I cannot even fathom the pain and suffering. My 17 year old is going to a concert with her friend alone first time.. I’m scared I’m Afraid something like this might happen. Because of evil like that pos I have to worry everyday for my kids to be ok 😢

[@sv6775]

🙏🏾

[@harmony331000]

I’m such a worry wart too, I fear for my kids so much and my kids say they don’t even want to have grandchildren for me because of the state of the world and people like this kids seem to be far too abundant 😢

[@renitentleaf]

I'm so sorry this is our reality. I couldn't imagine having children right now. It would be extremely unhealthy bc I wouldn't want them to go anywhere..

[@leeshluvs384]

Honestly! It's so scary nowadays not knowing the knowing.. We can be anywhere and this happens. Hope everything works out and your 17 year old has fun.

[@amazoniablue7572]

Not just like that. There are many more different POS:s out there you should be worried about and I am pretty sure many of these victims family members are the root of those by voting democrat just as an example. Maybe even you yourself.

[@AlsoKnownAsTheOracle]

"For them to comment on my children is highly improper." Your children are still living.

[@conspiraciesexposed7760]

What the heck that was so sad

[@Evil_Knievel]

The attorneys children had absolutely nothing to do with the case and shouldn't have been brought up into this mess. "A panel of 15 found that the judge presiding over the Parkland trial acted unprofessionally and they sided with the defense attorneys over the psychopathic judge. She's also no longer a judge, which really says a lot about the situation."

[@churabhok2869]

The judge was actually very kind, in my opinion those lawyers should have been removed from their profession!!

[@meanhe8702]

The lady suggesting that each family member draws straws and get to shoot the murderer, wow. 😢 That is a pain you just don’t understand unless you are in it. Idk what I would do if someone hurt one of my kids like that! I suppose I can understand in those terms.😡😭

[@cerberus3426]

Hurt them? He murdered them, hurting is a little smack to the back of the head because they were acting smart... This is legit barbaric.

[@olivermmm2012]

That would be the preferred judgement for that monster. She's 100 right.

[@meanhe8702]

@@cerberus3426 You’re right, absolutely, I was just in the moment, and used a poor word choice. But the sentiment is sincerely meant.

[@POLSKAH]

@@olivermmm2012 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@rickyrichreacts9667]

Not really. I feel like playing that game with our “elected officials” all the time

[@KimDelGiorno]

You never back talk a judge. This judge has been incredibly patient.

[@darklyresplendentone]

Absolutely correct. 💯 Just shows you how vile and inappropriate everyone in that DA's office truly are... So glad they were ALL called out and that one attorney was exiled to the back row.

[@justinafuchs2619]

@Padraig Warren She won’t get sanctioned, that’s just wishful thinking. She had to put up with an unprofessional, disrespectful defense team. And everyone watching the trial can understand that.

[@PA-gt1dd]

@@justinafuchs2619 Actually we don't.

[@abdallaha92]

She was anything but patient. She sided with the prosecution throughout the case. She berated the defense, in front of their client, for closing early, which actually wasn't that uncommon of an event. She could have talked to them in chambers about the fact she though they were passively being disrespectful. The biggest thing was she literally let people dog whistle, what some would consider threats, at the defense, (what does Karma mean?), bringing up their children etc and then berated them for complaining. They asked for a side bar, and she instead forced them to say things out loud which only infuriated the families more. When you combine this with the fact jurors felt threatened with her ignoring them several times, its' pretty clear she deserves sanctions

[@perfectruin4845]

Exactly!

[@Skully_98]

That first statement from the women at the start is so raw and real. And exactly what he deserves

[@lovemefeedme939]

Sad that the inmates are the ones who serve the real justice

[@Harry-bn5mp]

Not justice...revenge

[@GOD719]

They don't. How often do you hear about inmates killing these people.

[@arenevskaya7934]

"Another meat to eat!"

[@Fish-rm6nl]

You guys watch too much tv

[@bepinkfloyd814]

@@Harry-bn5mp same thing

[@21stcenturyteacher62]

Usually the shooter takes his own life at the end of the rampage. These people earned the right to speak every word they said. My heart goes out to everyone impacted by this horror. Their statements are visceral, they are raw, they are real, and they are truth.

[@mobileasaurus]

They are opinions, emotions not truth.

[@helenh258]

@@mobileasaurus truth is subjective, and they are clearly speaking theirs. Must be some demons you fighting to demean the feelings of these grieving parents whose kids were gunned down

[@twatik]

@@mobileasaurus wtf are u doin? U think u got a higher braincell count because u use a word that u urself dont even understand? Emotion isnt truth? What the fucc does that even mean? If someone killed your mom dad and sister, what would the truth be?

[@hellskitchen_orchestra]

The kid made a big mistake, but God is good and God forgives the sinners

[@vipersuphere]

lmao no that is not usual

[@raynelee6290]

You can not blame what is said out of emotion. They are expressing their hatred, pain, anger ext. They have to work through what happened and they have to do it while going through reliving it everyday while in court. This is part of the process of grief. It's healing for them. The defense team is disgusting for this.

[@andyisdead]

Their anger is rational though

[@gregmccarter2176]

It's all part of healing.

[@janottestad5154]

Can't blame the victims, but can blame the court for allowing such nonsense.

[@lapacesiaconvoi]

it was definitely inappropriate to mention the judge's children. . they've no idea if one has been lost or other personal pain could be associated with his statement.the comment was unnecessary and irrelevant.

[@sharingan270]

By that logic wouldnt it also apply to the shooter? clearly did what he did out of emotion. Far from healing, makes them look like monsters too. Be better than him.

[@NotDecided420]

Witness impact statements are hard-core in Florida! The amount of people like that lady who said he's facing prison justice. And he is. He can't stay on protection forever. He'll soon get bored of that. As soon as he reaches Gen Pop, that's him done. The number of people hurt, there has to be a family friend in there or something. When I was inside, the prison officers used to tell a few of us why the new person was in. Then they'd open up the doors in the morning and 5 people will be waiting to storm his cell and either beat tf out of him, or worse. He doesn't stand a chance.

[@bridykes9986]

Yep eventually he won't be getting pc and this guy won't last in prison in population a year he will have his day

[@nikkipennington6271]

Yup. I almost think it's worse for him that he got life vs death penalty and more justification for the families. Death by the state is too easy for this piece of 💩

[@NotDecided420]

@Nikki Pennington imagine being scared all the time you're unlocked. All the opportunities people have to do the old faithful prison attacks? Depending on where vmhe ends up - and I'll admit I don't know much about the US system, I'm UK - but eventually, after he'd served 30 odd years, i expect he'd be downgraded to a lower category. That's what happens here. By the time you get to C Cat, people are pretty much left to do what they want for a large part.

[@danielsullivan2558]

He will be in protective custody for the rest of his time in prison 100%. Just like the kid from the movie theater shootings.

[@NotDecided420]

I was just thinking because of his attitude, he might (after 20 years!) Want some of the freedoms offered by not being on protection. A wider range of jobs available. A wider range of potential friends. A wider range of potential life enders! I'm not ever sure they get TV in US cells? It might be different on protection. Protection in the UK was the Block which was also the place people were put as a punishment. No TV, no table, seat, bed etc during the day. In the UK, every cell has a TV, a kettle, a toilet, somewhere to sit, somewhere to write or eat. I'm just wondering if they have a separate prison or regime for NONCES? And don't forget. People go on protection for all sorts. Debtors go on protection. So there are many different people on the protection wing, I don't think he'll be safe there either. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@sahilgarg3949]

In my personal opinion, death liberates while life imprisonment is the real punishment for such a heinous crime

[@nottellingyou14]

With how things are going he would just sit on death row until some law gets passed saying he’s too young for the dp or some governor puts a moratorium on executions like in Oregon and Cali. Imo, if there ever was a criminal deserving of the death penalty, it’s Cruz. But I had a feeling he would just die of natural causes in prison or another inmate kills him, like Dalhmer

[@lopss-nx4xd]

Youre right, thats why dictators choose death over prison

[@GimmeSkooma]

I agree life in prison then dying is way worse than the death penalty

[@hilmaekandjo6986]

You are right. But many people spend years in prison before they are executed. They call it death row (People in prison waiting to die). I personally feel people who get sentenced to death should get killed the way they killed their victim/victims. I know its dark but yoh I cry everytime I watch a real crime video/documentry. This is all just Sad n Mad at the same time. M holering 😢😢😢

[@Lapusso650]

@@hilmaekandjo6986 you don’t understand what unbearable pain is, otherwise the thought would be unbearable

[@remedy9648]

Holy crap I love this judge. How dare these lawyers complain when parents are giving impact statements cause this pos murdered their kids. Let them say whatever they want, they deserve at least that. God give them peace. 🙏💜🙏

[@abdallaha92]

How dare the defense team complain about being threatened. How dare they not what their families be brought up, or to be yelled at for doing their jobs. Many comments went well beyond criticizing the behavior of the defense team and went personal. That judge was a disgrace, and when the head of the public defenders office asks you to go sidebar, you might want to do it.

[@camerona.6560]

The defense lawyers were just doing their appointed duty and were being attacked mercilessly for it. Noone just have to deal with that just for doing their job. I feel terrible for the families of course, but they should focus their anger to where it is actually due.

[@cd852]

@@camerona.6560 giving the finger to a judge and giggling and snickering with a mass murderer isn't their job.

[@swirlgirl452]

@@abdallaha92 so it’s their job to be disrespectful to victims and throw up the middle finger and joke and smile with the mass murderer??? Their behavior condoned what they got and they got what they deserved.

[@abdallaha92]

@ALA-FREAKING-BAMA! Yeah that actually doesn't justify allowing possible threats to the defense's children, and not even affording them the ability to air their concerns about this in a sidebar. Attorney Curtis is being investigated for the finger. If you have other examples of McNeill being unprofessional, please give me examples. If Judge Scherer was concerned so much about the defense's behavior, she could have called them, or their boss Mr. Weekes, to her chambers. Instead, she repeatedly acted bias and unprofessional herself and she in fact did cross the line.

[@baronyee8078]

there is a huge difference between losing a child to sickness, accident and losing a child to being murdered coldly.

[@briannavisocky9757]

The rage and sadness mixing together is physically painful

[@seaanemones]

That first lady is so right… real justice is just that.

[@paulclancy2404]

Yea I agree but I doubt that happen depending they put him main pop like they did with Jeffrey

[@2stroketyson79]

A eye for a eye will leave the world blind

[@ktrayn78]

She is describing vengeance, not justice.

[@streghewitch77]

@@2stroketyson79 that's a logical fallacy because there's always one dude who's going to have one I left. So the whole world will not be blind.

[@streghewitch77]

@@ktrayn78 you're wrong. Justice is equal. Vengeance is doing more to somebody then what was done to you. Justice is doing exactly to somebody what has been done to you. This idea of Justice that so many of you seem to hold is a complete fallacy! I don't know where people got the idea that Justice was anything less than an eye for an eye. Vengeance would be an eye for two eyes or an eye for a life. That woman was 100% correct. Justice would be, in this case, the ending of his life. If you want to get technical, even that wouldn't be Justice because you can't kill him 17 times. He took 17 lives. Justice would truly be, being able to kill him 17 times. Vengeance would be killing him 18 times

[@enrd12]

The sad thing is that he clearly doesn’t care. He shows no remorse. These things will never stop happening as another one just happened. This world is crazy.

[@TheVAMPIREMARIUS69]

Dismissing the families like that is unfathomable!

[@RC093]

I applaud Mr. Oliver for showing that defense team what giving the finger really looks like. Such disgusting behavior from the defense team acting unprofessional and showing disrespect to the victims families.

[@thisistheway3812]

And the families showed disrespect as well

[@MentalFabritecht]

​@@thisistheway3812 theirs was warranted

[@kay-ub7ux]

@@thisistheway3812 that disrespect was well deserved. that 19 year old killed so many. you would not know how they felt because you were not them. with all the pain those families went through, they deserve to say those things to that man

[@thisistheway3812]

@@kay-ub7ux in my opinion not in a court of law and I know they feel angry and they should

[@Mulder-Scully]

@@thisistheway3812 They have the right, the lawyers don't.

[@user-oe2tb9pu1o]

The defendants lawyer’s saying that they don’t want the victims to talk about there children while the victims Children are dead boils my blood so much

[@zeniarodriguez7961]

They have a point wtf does their children have to do with the monster who killed the victims? It wasn't the monsters children they were talking about, they were talking about defense teams kids they have nothing to do with that you really think they want to defend thus POS they're public defenders assigned by the state he didn't hire them they did not have a choice in defending him

[@midas6753]

@@zeniarodriguez7961 didn't the defence lawyer bring up her own children in her closing statements to get sympathy for the killer? In that sense it's perfectly acceptable for the parents to respond to that by bringing up her children in their statements too.

[@almas3427]

The child also deserves sympathy especially after hearing the parents speak in such disgusting and sadistic manner. The root of this evil is the pharmaceutical companies and drug dealers.

[@Heather-wr2je]

​@Almas wtf are you talking about??? You sick person. He GUNNED DOWN AND MURDERED CHILDREN!!!! He had all the resources, he had psychiatrist and psychologists BEFORE he CHOSE to do this!! Don't sit there and defend him! Did you even WATCH the trial???? Watch him, the coward he is, sit there and sit with his ears PLUGGED whist his actions were displayed?? The video played?? You're sick if you defend him. The FBI should be watching you if you feel sympathy for this POS

[@seylenebbyd]

I’m with the judge and the victims’ families.

[@DAISYROSE22]

I found this entire situation to be one of great sadness. The loss of the children, the spineless deputies cowering outside, and the way the defendent was treated by adults who were responsible for taking care of him. We, as a country, must take a hard look at how these criminals are being "grown" in our society.

[@marieslabbert6009]

There is something seriously wrong with a judicial system where somebody can irreversibly destroy 34 victims and their family's lives and enjoy it and still get to keep his! 🤬🤬🤬

[@lucyhogarth3988]

I think that is justice. Once you are dead you are dead. He's in prison for the rest of his life. The rest of his life in prison isn't going to be fun by any means. He will either be alone 24/7 or he will be torn to shreds in gen pop. That is justice. Very single hour of every single day for the rest of his life he will suffer. Death is quick this won't be

[@SDSypher]

Don’t get why they can’t just immediately execute people like this. Not like people on death row are getting executed daily. They always wait way too long. why not just get rid of that waste of flesh as soon as possible

[@lucyhogarth3988]

@@SDSypher we just let them rot in prison and tbh I think that's worse. Once you are dead you are dead. It's one and done. This guy will either go nuts in solidarity confinement or spend every hour of every day Inside getting torn apart. Beasts (people who hurt kids) in my country are often "accidentally" let near gen pop by the screws and end up beaten to death within a few days

[@lucyhogarth3988]

@@SDSypher it's been super interesting chatting to you. I appreciate your perspective on everything, I hope you are able to have a good day. This case has been rough to watch

[@KBP120]

The problem with the "death penalty" is there's no torture involved. The only thing that would be even a tiny bit of justice is what the first mother said. An injection is garbage.

[@kilerzxxx]

Man it is painful to see how much they think about his torture. Can't imagine that kind of pain they're going through.

[@ivalozada]

The poor mom with the British accent. Omg I can't imagine her agony. Those hours must have felt like years.

[@killjoy1056]

Throw his ashes in the garbage! Such a true statement! God Bless these families for being so strong to be able to go and speak on behalf of the loved and deceased.

[@RebelScumThis]

You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.

[@syndren4377]

@@RebelScumThis never been so clever, we forget be kind. Never been so kind, we forget to be clever.

[@ShayeYouTwit]

HOW DARE that many say “no one’s had to endure what we’ve endured in this courtroom” HOW DARE HE! as he is sitting in front of the victims families. the mothers, the fathers, grandparents, cousins who all lost someone viciously… just how can he do that. how.

[@sirechief2438]

When he said we he was including them too

[@ShayeYouTwit]

@@sirechief2438 he was definitely talking about the rest of the defense team.

[@brooked.9395]

I'm sure it does suck to be forced to represent a murderer like that, though.

[@ShayeYouTwit]

@@brooked.9395 I don’t think it compares to losing your family member in a school shooting.

[@isay207]

No one was forced it was a choice!!!!!

[@lhproductions61]

The audio of the kids walking through the school obviously passing bodies is what hit me-lots of tears.

[@tarhappy5638]

I will never understand why this jury felt the need to spare him his life is beyond me

[@nicology13]

Some people think living with regret is worse than death

[@coleslaw5713]

Cause the killer tried to act all insane probably to get free from prison. Now it takes one crazy MF to do this but he was talking all "demons and voices". So now he gets to go into a prison with men who hate children killers. I guarantee he doesn't even look human anymore

[@hachi7100]

Life in prison is way worse than death

[@1800taylorswift]

If they chose the death penalty, he wouldn’t have to suffer. Now that hes in prison he has to suffer. He won’t last long I think.

[@seeannaisawsum]

Why did the defense blatantly ignore the judge telling them to sit down? Super disrespectful

[@darklyresplendentone]

Not to state the obvious, but the entire DA's office has been vile and highly unprofessional during this entire process. 💯 So it isn't surprising or unwarranted that the judge said, no, the victims will be able to voice their opinions without being muzzled and silenced.

[@ashleezaccardi4029]

@@darklyresplendentone typically the abbreviation DA refers to the district attorney, or the prosecution. I think you're talking about the defense side.

[@mobileasaurus]

@@darklyresplendentone you should write the district attorney and tell them what you think!

[@JG-or9ej]

Situations like this are the reason the legal system is breaking down…

[@PaulineRaabe_]

I'll bet the farm that 99.9% of us here agree with every word the surviving families had to say. For what they had to sit through and hear and see gives them more power to speak up. As they should, especially in this case of the worst school shooting were the defendant was actually captured alive. Rest in paradise sweet children ✨🕊️✨🌹✨💖✨ The light of these children shown brightly through their parents' souls. Their right to speak up is what makes a difference. I support them 💯%

[@darklyresplendentone]

Yes, I would venture to say you are 100% correct. For the defense team to play victim after all their inappropriate actions during this sentencing is beyond hilarious, and good for this judge for calling each one of them OUT on it.

[@kennethrevenge5849]

What a cute innocent child falsey accused

[@sallyannchappell5671]

I agree. I am one.

[@Platypus680]

I guess I’m the .1%

[@justinafuchs2619]

@@skyprescottfish9339 ​ Yeah, you are the 1% who can’t wait to let everyone know that you’re so much better than the victim families. And what do they know, right? Ok, their sons, daughters or spouses were slaughtered by that miserable coward, but what’s that compared to your holier-than-thou attitude? We all admire you.

[@BaByJaYATL]

these statements had me in tears truly powerful words.. felt it

[@raphaelitaduckett4148]

This guy is so disturbed .He has not realized the damage and he can never get true remorse because what he did cannot be fixed.He isn't grown up yet. So his feelings Inside are empty and lonely. IT WILL EAT AT HIM.

[@Darrylizer1]

I hope you are correct.

[@Anistasia5]

Victims should ALWAYS be able to say what they want. Unfortunately our system likes to protect the offenders from the wrath of victim impact statements. The judge is not out of line. As far as I’m concerned as soon as that guilty verdict is out, it’s fair game on the defendant. I want more judges like this. I cried during each statement. These families should get the right to let the jury know their feelings too. Sometimes justice is telling exactly what you want.

[@ashleyisnicole1045]

Yea the families should be able to say what they want to the OFFENDER, not the attorneys. Those people are there on appointed duty. The judge was out of line for not correcting the attacks on council and then attacking counsel when they were simply asking her to understand them.

[@alexsosa5727]

sure, they can say anything they like to the defendant, the one that was found Guilty, but they shouldn't be allowed to drag the court appointed public defense attorneys as if they were the ones that committed the heinous crimes. the judge should've stepped in especially when they brought the defense attorneys kids into it and questioned their parenting... you saw how the judge reacted to the defense attorneys mere mention of her kids, and yet she remained quiet when the defense attorneys kids were being mentioned. it's not right, and she should've reminded the parents that the defense attorneys aren't on trial. this judge just lost credibility with how she reacted, and showed she doesn't have the right temperament for cases of this nature.

[@Anistasia5]

I think they were offended by the attorneys talking about flipping the bird etc. I know their job is tough, and no they shouldn’t address the attorneys, but I just felt a lack of professionalism in the words they chose. I didn’t like the comparisons. Thanks for your opinions though! It’s always nice to see all sides.

[@JET7C0]

@@alexsosa5727 I agree - everyone is falling over each other to compliment this judge, and before this trial got truly under way, I thought she was pretty good, but hugging the prosecutorial team? Allowing people to denigrate public defenders? People need to understand that even if Cruz is an extreme case, his crime is horrendous and his guilt obvious, is to just imagine being accused of a crime they didn't commit, being possibly found guilty of it, and then seeing their judge embracing the prosecutors - the state's lawyers - all while sitting back while people openly insult their defense team. People need to understand an impartial judiciary is how our system _must_ work, for all of our own good, and it's scary to see people applauding vigilante justice and this judge's clear disdain for the defense, as if hating Nikolas Cruz's defense team isn't the easiest thing in the world for society to do. Our justice system is supposed to provide _everyone_ with a competent defense, and if people were in that hot seat at the defendant's table they'd understand why even in Cruz's case, the judge needs to do their absolute best to be impartial, both in behavior and rulings.

[@bogusphone8000]

If the attorneys had any character, they would have quit or recused themselves.

[@marisaanna]

Victoria Gonzalez is wise beyond her years, has a heart of gold and a triumphant spirit. She has a strength and compassionate heart that many people go their entire lives without experiencing. If you havent listened to her speech you should, its deeply moving, and she was the only victim that seemed to get any kind of reaction from the shooter.

[@gonzobatano5352]

That's because she was the only one acknowledging him as a human being, a tormented soul, in desperate need of some human affection. The others just continually dehumanized him. He already knew that, that's how people treated him before, that draws no reaction from him anymore.

[@fresh.prince7472]

@@gonzobatano5352 he's no human being he should of got dp

[@therealz360z7]

@@gonzobatano5352 oh please he beat his own mother! These victims did nothing to him there were people that treated him with kindness but he didn't respond in kind! He fantasized for years about mass shooting up a school. He literally blew someone's child's head off it was barely attached by a piece of skin im a mother if you did that to my sweet child you couldn't possibly be human.

[@Terratetradon]

@@gonzobatano5352 u kill kids ur not a human

[@fart63]

@@gonzobatano5352 he deserves to be dehumanized. There are people that loved him in his life. Having hard times does not give anyone the right to murder. Stop pretending he is just some “sad boy with mommy issues :((“ he did what he did because he is devoid of sympathy.

[@emboarepic]

That 16 year old that passed away in march 2019 Was like a brother to me

[@klarinetta]

Tough and fair judge. Respect to her.

[@mrautismo420]

Ignorant and emotional, ironic how she calls them out for being unprofessional

[@koppsr]

Saddest part? That the parents have to hope for STREET JUSTICE, to do the job, because the legal justice is so neutered and shackled, that it simply can't do that. THAT is the worst part of this case.

[@fortnitepenisvirgin2992]

I feel like street justice would be a lot more brutal than a lethal injection tho

[@recipoldinasty]

Bruh he will spend all his life in prison

[@misssoso5859]

This is why I detest those who claim to be oh so compassionate that they can't tolerate the death penalty. Their "compassion" only benefits the criminal and deeply hurts the families of the victims.

[@NoLefTurnUnStoned.]

@@misssoso5859 People oppose the death penalty because of the minority of condemned and executed people who were innocent. Just the other day a guy was found to be innocent and released after serving 24 years of a life sentence.

[@clovermx1472]

@@NoLefTurnUnStoned. and it's a "quick way out"

[@barrettson1028]

I love that judge, she is great at her job, and dismissing that horrible defense team.

[@bananka4905]

thanks jesse for this... l really like your youtube channel .. i don't go to any other media sites...it isnt necessary when i am able to have a full video of extreme and required information on KZbin

[@marisa4545]

I watch a lot of these trials. I give kudos to these families. I couldn't be that calm, etc...

[@luiscosta9186]

Much respect for that judge! She's on her right to stand like that!

[@al-us4lo]

“Nobody in this court room had to endure what we had to endure” … is this a JOKE? Are you serious? How tone deaf and insensitive. Wow. I hope this haunts them till they die.

[@darklyresplendentone]

Exactly... 💯 A PR nightmare, but I guess the DAs believe that they are entitled to give their demonstrative approval of mass child murderers... and then hide behind bylaws like cowards when called out on it.

[@tchili1]

Yeah, his remarks were beyond disgusting. What about all these victims and their families what they have had to endure for all these years? He acted as though their suffering meant nothing and only his little ego got bruised by a grieving person. He needs to get over it and examine his own narcissistic behavior, but doubt that will ever happen because those type of people only care about theirselves and their own pain.

[@suebrown7358]

@@tchili1 yes, this defense team was disgusting not for what their job was, to defend this monster, but HOW they did their job. They were SO disrespectful of the court and the families and then had the nerve to take offense at comments about their own families, when they were the ones to open that door! 😡

[@Grace4_AllHPC]

I believe he was referring to the prosecutors team. But still inappropriate. You signed up for the job.

[@berniecioffoletti3398]

Yeah, audacity can reach unprecedented depths.

[@yeshilmeshil9097]

The jury should be a group of people who have lost a loved one. Then they'll know what the families are really going through and they would give a fair verdict. I wish the families could beat the crap out of the killer before sending him to prison.

[@alexcampbell4297]

That won't be a partial verdict by a jury of your peers. In the eyes of the law you are innocent before you're proven guilty. Every citizen is entitled to a fair day in court even child killing piece of trash like that shooter

[@yesyes9698]

That defeats the purpose of the jury. Instead the system should come up with something more “justice” ish.

[@ennamorgan]

They are very carefully screened to avoid exactly that kind of impartiality. Justice, in theory, needs to be blind in order to be fair

[@eastrockaway11518]

First time visiting/viewing, awesome commentary!

[@steves9955]

No matter how much agony people are going through from this, there’s always gonna be lawyers who think they’re special

[@BrandonPerry_]

It's their job. There's not much moral consideration when your being paid 120k-140k a year on average

[@Mulder-Scully]

It's called entitlement, the world is crawling with them, they think because they have some education that everyone should bow down to them.

[@Changeiscoming47]

These victims had every right to say what they said. The only ones who behaved like trash and garbage were the defense attorneys. Even after they got what they wanted and they had NO REASON to do so. Bless the prosecutors, the Judge, and all of the victims and their families.

[@lolalopez7657]

The defense attorneys did their job. Everyone hates them for doing what they were appointed to do, which is defend him. Like it or not, that's our system. So should we do away with a defense system? While I think he deserves a death sentence, they did their jobs. The judge reacting the way she did, proves their point. They are receiving death threats and are hated. To say things about their kids when they are already looking over their shoulders, of course they are going to adk the judge to stop those kinds of statements. The attorney barely mentioned her kids, and she lost it. Which proves their point. They should be able to direct their anger towards the defendant, but the attorneys?

[@jackfanning7952]

@@lolalopez7657 Their job did not include giving the finger to the court. It did not include laughing and insulting the dead children's families. It did not involve ignoring the judge's demand that they sit down and shut up. The judge rules in a court. If you don't like it, obey anyway and then file an appeal. Don't keep whining about how much you were suffering. Such narcissism sitting among a group of parents that have had their children blown to pieces! Show some compassion for the victims. There was none of that from the defense attorneys. Their conduct should be reviewed by a governing body and appropriate punishment and perhaps removal of their license to practice law applied.

[@bethrock2477]

True

[@Changeiscoming47]

@@lolalopez7657 you must have missed the majority of the trial. Yes, they did their jobs. However, and as an attorney for nearly 20 years, I can assure you that they behaved so unprofessionally, disrespectfully, and with zero decorum, that they will be answering to the FL State Bar. All attorneys are subject to the Rules of Professional Conduct. Perhaps they don’t this it applies to them - that will be for their Bar to determine.

[@Changeiscoming47]

@@jackfanning7952 my thoughts exactly. I’ve never seen attorneys behave like these in court. They’re lucky the Judge didn’t hold them in contempt.

[@aviannamachado]

The defense talking ab their children is crazy , meanwhile their children were murdered. Read the room . I’m so disgusted

[@hopeg02]

Wow. Thag first statement already got me. Saying that in person to someone’s face is very bold and strong.

[@dannyrichards-nb9sh]

❤❤❤

[@emsyfk]

This judge is such a badass. I hope that she’s happy, healthy and loved every single day.

[@barbarachieppo9603]

That defense lawyer actually said "No one in this courtroom had to endure what we had to endure." Pathetic.

[@catb8834]

I know right. So disrespectful to the family members grieving murdered loved ones. I can’t stand her.

[@abdallaha92]

He meant in terms of trying the case. And we wouldn't know of what they said had she allowed the head of the public defenders office to go sidebar.

[@MotorsportCreative]

@@abdallaha92 true, but when emotions are involved reasoning does not exist.

[@Thunderous333]

@@abdallaha92 I'm sure trying a case is totally on par with having your children brutally murdered by a pos.

[@101Licious]

You don't make any jokes with this Judge. When she told him to sit down, I sat down too.

[@pamboyd5213]

The judge deserves a medal- god bless these families and KARMA IS A BEAUTIFUL THING 🙏🙏

[@Valen_Wolf]

The last mother.. OMG! POWERFUL words!

[@ratchhh4376]

It breaks my heart for these families. I genuinely have so much love and respect for them. It was an honor to hear little bits and pieces about their loved ones ❤️

[@yarahgil7452]

I feel is for Cruz poor boy

[@yarahgil7452]

Every body insurt this poor boy they going to put he crazy

[@kennethrevenge5849]

What a cute innocent child falsey accused

[@m.h.6499]

I feel we heard more than a little bit about their loved ones. We really got to know them. I heard that the prosecutor came out of retirement and promised the parents that the world will know their names, and will know them. I feel that’s true. From this day, I will never think again about the criminal. But I will think often about the extraordinary men and children whose light and legacy will shine. I will remember the 17 and their families always.

[@nickie7874]

@@yarahgil7452 Well hey little murder wannabe, write him a letter, be his pen pal. Actually you may end up in a cell next to him soon the way you're talking here.

[@LAKEPLACIDMOVIE]

This is honestly heartbreaking. 💔

[@AnnemieM]

The hospital staff in the first hospital that did not tell the parents that their beloved child has passed away and instead sent these parents to the other hospital is an abomination in my eyes.

[@rebeccacarter7972]

Sadly it happens. When my brother was hit by a drunk/high on cocaine driver they told us the wrong place. Sometimes kids brought in are no named and listed as John Doe. It’s still awful and heartbreaking.

[@jettsoma]

Those defense people were SO out of line, especially when he said that no one had to endure what they did! Whaaaaaat? Ridiculous!

[@darklyresplendentone]

The whole defense table is textbook "disgusting", from their expressions to their vile behavior during the sentencing.

[@ghambino1]

At the end of the video the judge says they are going to be ok wow. Emotions got the best of her.

[@kidjetrecon7153]

Victims impact statements are always hard, no matter what is said only forgiveness will free your soul your mind your life, how can I say this, after crying through tears of anger watching my wife stand up and give her impact statement look over at me, point to the man who killed our son, call out the mans name, look back over at me with eyes I’ve never seen in quite awhile, after years of pain and anger, her voice quivering, she says I know I’m talking for my loving husband and myself on the night we conceived the beautiful life you so senselessly took, I and she states her name ,looks back in my eyes, you choose murder we choose forgiveness and from that moment we have been released from living a life not free from pain, free from every moment thinking of the man who killed our son. After loosing a son or daughter nothing is ever going to make life easier free from pain, at this point every one who has lost someone to another’s senseless acts, should be released from ever thinking about their killer again, we were released that very day to once again live on with only the memories of our beautiful loving child. I pray everyone involved will forgive and move on be released. God will release you , forgiveness works. Let God be the judge, he’s going to do what the human mind could ever dream of , possible The killer will repent. ❤️🙏

[@Thenextperson]

Amen!God Bless you!

[@nottellingyou14]

Wow, whenever I hear about people forgiving like this I always realize I’ve got so much more to learn in life.

[@joankamp2319]

I think those that spoke about their family member or friend that was killed and had been told they couldn’t show emotion, couldn’t show anything by talk or actions during the trail just let loose after the verdict. They just couldn’t hold back anymore. They let out all their angry, pain, frustration not just at the defendant but of defense team also. Some of the defense team deserved it. Putting up the middle finger and laughing with the defendant during the trial is horrible. The defense represented a person that admitted his guilt. They weren’t trying to prove him innocent so why couldn’t they show more decorum by words or actions for the families?

[@yarahgil7452]

Fuco family is they fault because they don’t Sducate they don’t and daughter and they buillying. Cruz

[@stonecoldsteveaustin9353]

they're probably ego maniacs who take everything super personally. it probably upsets them to know that this case can't be won, that this is one murderer they can't help set loose. a lot of people mention that public defenders are just doing a job, that they don't have a choice. that's true a lot of times, but i also noticed that public defenders are seemingly the bottom of the barrel when it comes to lawyers, or humanity in general..

[@jasg771]

i wonder how defense team can do that while looking into the cold murderer's eyes and yet laugh with him. Unless they were deliberately trying to agitate the victims' families.

[@joejanota707]

This is somthing I struggle to understand too. I'm autistic, so my empathy is very different to normal people. Were it me in their shoes I would probably behave more like the last parent spoke. Calmly, because personally I think death is too easy. Life in prison? Forced to live a retched life behind bars? That is torture. Torture, he deserves.

[@robinvore3219]

Well said and I'm with you.

[@classicreaction5340]

Life in prison is a much, much more terrible fate than getting a couple injections and going to sleep forever. That kid is gonna spend every second of the rest of his life waiting for the other shoe to drop. It's literally a form of 24/7 torture, and he deserves every second of it.

[@murdamooch]

its not people adapt. at his age he will get used to his environment.

[@joshuacoons9517]

If he got the death sentence he still would have lived in the prison for 10-15yrs before they put him to death. I say he should have gotten that instead of spending millions on him keeping him alive for 80yrs till he dies of old age. He is going to get three squares, be able to watch day time TV, be able to exercise, get some of the best health care. I think which ever jurors decide on life should really think long and hard on how much pain and suffering they cause not only to these 34 families but to the tax payer of Florida and there future children. They obviously was thinking about how it made them feel instead of the community. Very self absorbed people. Bleeding harts of America is what is driving us to the ground. It will be the end of us. This was a shut and closed case for the death penalty. How many people do you need to murder before it is enough. In some ways I think those jurors that voted for life are just as bad as that defense Council and how they acted during this trial. All about them and not about justice, community and victims.

[@KBP120]

Unfortunately they'll never change the death penalty to include legitimate torture. Just imagine how that threat alone would deter sickos from doing things like this stinking pile of raw sewage. Common sense is completely out the window when it comes to this stuff...and it's going farther and farther out the window as times goes on.

[@adrianfong5783]

@@joshuacoons9517 we can all guess what life in prison is because we won’t go through it but it’s much worse than we can even imagine you can adapt but a lot of people that go through it usually change their life and that’s the real punishment the fact that they will regret their decisions made 20-40 even 50 years in the past, even us who are free from prison live regretting petty decisions etc that’s honestly the most proper punishment the law could provide because I can almost guarantee he’s gonna end up killing himself in prison in 3 years tops lol

[@sleptonitsundays9531]

@@adrianfong5783 you make me sick

[@ViggyIggy]

Did defense have the nerve to say “No one in this courtroom had to endure what we had to endure” over a few comments?!? Are u effing kidding me!?! No they had to endure way more like losing their children to a pathetic pos murderer!

[@cc1093]

I want to hope and believe that even in the most horrifying moments in life there is light to be found, altough these parents lost their children, as the judge said, they will have each other I really wish for this community to have the strength to keep living and heal as much as possible

[@Doxxy820]

So proud of these parents and loved ones for speaking their minds.

[@robpash2204]

I found their blood lust disturbing.

[@lucyhogarth3988]

@@robpash2204 I'm Scottish, we don't have the death penalty and haven't the entire time I've been alive. It's not normal or" justice" to us, so it was jarring to hear people so desperate and genuinely heartbroken that he didn't get the death penalty. I think that I can empathize with their deep and unwavering sadness, it's still strange to me,to see in action people demanding death. I mean I totally get it. it's just strange because it's not my country's norm if that makes sense?

[@SDSypher]

@@lucyhogarth3988 there’s just some countries that believe certain people don’t deserve to live due to their actions. I don’t live in a country like that, but I agree with it. if a death penalty is sentenced upon someone, they likely earned it. they’re likely a monster of a person and barely an excuse of a human. and people don’t look at them as human.

[@lucyhogarth3988]

@@SDSypher I totally understand that. I don't know that the death penalty is wrong or right. I'm personally glad that I live in a country where it's outlawed but I'd probably have an entirely different outlook if I was in your country. It's just strange to have such an in-depth look at how the US court works. You basically never get to see scots court cases. This case is awful and so absolutely heartbreaking I understand why people want this guy dead. He is a waste of a soul

[@nananichole]

@@robpash2204 I don’t. I think if someone killed my child or loved one in cold blood, made them suffer and enjoyed it I’d want the same in turn for them. May be “disturbing” but it’s just and understandable.

[@covinaca5312]

It's sad that such evil can come into someone's life.

[@tamitribbiani7907]

I think he was brain damaged from birth.

[@TheMichaelT123]

You’re clearly new to life 🗿

[@pepperjack6749]

Don’t fool yourself. Every human on Earth has that capacity given the right environment, especially before the mind matures

[@chanhnguyen81]

You also know what...? Each day we are raising an evil unknowingly in society. So try to be kind to everyone you meet

[@mymindseyesees2002]

pepper jack you don’t speak for everyone

[@iBe_Sarah]

The judge is as amazing as Judge Dorrow with the Darryl Brooks case. So happy we have such strong and powerful women in our courthouses!

[@travel_the_whole_wide_worl3789]

The way my jaw DROPPED when the attorney said “no one in this courtroom had to endure what we’ve had to endure”…… I have never heard a more tone-deaf, absolutely despicable statement. How about… the parents… who had their children annihilated by the monster he was defending?? No doubt they endured FAR worse than you, sir. 🤯

[@maemae4909]

The parents just said what 99.9999% of people hope for all child abusers and child killers. This is just everyone’s thoughts finally verbalized aloud.

[@coldisle]

I was blown away by the heart wrenching eloquence of these surviving family members. Since the death penalty seems to rarely ever get “ executed, “ I’m with them…hoping that this rabid animal gets real justice in prison…where even many of the most hardcore offenders have no tolerance for anyone who hurts innocent children.

[@brianlouks2496]

@Padraig Warren - That's not a given and if he is, it's only temporary.

[@silva777]

No, get lost.

[@Dolcevita_bakes]

ok so I get the names we call this evil monster but STOP CALLING HIM ANIMALS!! Animals don’t do this to each others but humans do this to animals! This guy is not an innocent animal! He is an evil demon!!!A fking demon!!!

[@TeamJY]

The family statememnts, and your comment really indicate why there is so much violence in the world. I recommend reading Plato's 'The Republic'. A book that defines what justice is, as opposed to vengeance.

[@bobloerakker7010]

Yep, this is actually a better punishment, just send them away for "life". Let the prisoners decide how they end him, it won't be humane..

[@collinparsons3363]

The reason the families went after the defense team is because of their awful behavior during the trial, which included flipping the bird and laughing about it. They had the nerve to object to being called out for their actions, and the judge rightfully put them in their place.

[@jimwatson4513]

These family members are 100 % correct , to express their thoughts , pointed at the defendent & , counsel !!!

[@Proberaumwurst]

"Beware that, when fighting monsters, you yourself do not become a monster."

[@happyday-yx7mx]

Exactly!

[@silva777]

That’s a sick, liberal statement that tries to minimize Justice and the guilt of the ‘monster’. Get lost.

[@natedogg101]

“Nobody in the court had to endure what we endure” are you kidding me

[@evang.9774]

Just crazy talk

[@kristinflugaur-wessell1063]

I know. What a loser!! I want to smear his career

[@clkmg]

Ah, what a wonderful wonderful empathetically intelligent woman we have as our judge 👑 Hallelujah🙌

[@andrewworrall4302]

I'm so glad that I've given my kids the best support system that i could. This boy needed a good support system

[@ethandevore6027]

When the defense said they have it worse than the victims.. wow what a powerful moment

[@jamiemorgan3649]

How was Victoria Gonzalez not shown in this video?? She had the most powerful statement out of everyone.

[@myema5694]

I absolutely agree with you. I also noticed that as she spoke Cruz appeared to be listening intensely and reacting emotionally. I think her statement genuinely impacted him very deeply.

[@magic.self.revival]

💯

[@fitecommander5565]

The MOST POWERFULL STATEMENT was not of Victoria BUT, of the DEFENSE TEAM.............they WON...

[@catb8834]

For the defence team to win they had to find a way to keep him out of prison all together. He still has life in prison. The winners are the general public who don’t have to worry that he will shoot them next. Shame he’s not the only one of these crazy people out there. 😭

[@whodat7084]

@@myema5694 he still wants to kill her and hates everyone. He’s plain evil.