Parkland Victim's Father Fred Guttenberg Gives Final Statement Before Shooter's Sentencing

[@bt3280]

This dad is really awesome, I can imagine how his daughter would have become, saying sorry to console him is not enough, sorry buddy.

[@krislittman5725]

We follow him on Twitter and he is so open, so knowledgeable.

[@tammyfossett6063]

A am

[@kingkrool1935]

And he even acknowledged the fact of how difficult it was defending him

[@kathdavies1220]

The pain these families have suffered is just unimaginable.

[@Zurround]

On the topic of "pain" I am very much hoping that the shooter sometimes experiences physical discomfort when trying to sit down if you catch my drift... A handsome young man like him will be very much enjoyed in prison....

[@raineyj560]

@@Zurround u did not call him handsome 😏😏😏😏🙄

[@Zurround]

@@raineyj560 "prison" handsome. He will be enjoyed in there.

[@raineyj560]

@@Zurround oh ok 😂

[@yalilajusticiera5047]

the victim's parents do not forgive Nikolas they will be in hell god I forgive Nikolas Nikolas will never be aloneNikolas will never be alone because God already forgives him. It hurts who hurts. It is the truth because the police are to blame for everything.

[@fernandaolivares7926]

I'm so glad he was able to address that horrible defense team and their disgraceful antics and horrifying statements. Yes the only word for them is SHAME

[@Zurround]

If the defense team goes out to eat and the restaurant knows who they are they will probably spit into their food.

[@queue555]

As bad as it is, someone HAS to defend the mother effer. I guarantee you every defense attorney was on board with aghast.

[@Zurround]

@MLAustin5 If I had been a parent who lost a child (or whose child survived but terribly maimed) I might just run up to one of those lawyers and smash them in the face (even if they are female) and try to knock out as many teeth as possible. If I did that my own jury might "nullify".

[@yalilajusticiera5047]

the victim's parents do not forgive Nikolas they will be in hell god I forgive Nikolas Nikolas will never be aloneNikolas will never be alone because God already forgives him. It hurts who hurts. It is the truth because the police are to blame for everything.nikolas is an autism child

[@AnaAcuraErica]

Agreed!! That man had a nerve before this talking about what the defense had to endure!! Clowns!! How dare they??

[@kimbok5971]

Mr. Guttenberg: Bravo, for such a heartfelt, extremely accurate impact speech. I have much respect for you and the other family members of the victims and survivors, for being so strong through this trial and behaving respectfully even though respect was not given to you all, by some people in the courtroom. I wish all of you the best and hope you can go on to enjoy life while keeping your loved ones memories alive.

[@bryannguyen8440]

Agreed.

[@origamikami3486]

America and it's obsession with guns SMH

[@lucy2014]

Kimbo K, that was very well said. God bless you and may God bless these families whose lives have been forever changed by this monster.

[@yalilajusticiera5047]

Nikolas will never be alone because God already forgives him. It hurts who hurts. It is the truth because the police are to blame for everything.the victim's parents do not forgive Nikolas but god yesnikolas is an autism child

[@origamikami3486]

@@yalilajusticiera5047 Shut up

[@sonysoldier9587]

Wow, hearing that the defense team was flipping off the victims is absolutely sickening. Very heartless and very unprofessional.

[@michellesouthflorida9682]

they weren’t .. one attorney.. Tamara Curtis.. during a hearing.. saw a camera on her and gave the bird which caused Cruz to laugh. disgusting behavior. but it was only her. not anyone else

[@Face_Reality]

@@derekjeter9083 yes it did

[@goodgolly4726]

@@Face_Reality if you watch the footage they are referring to it was towards a camera during recess

[@goodgolly4726]

@@Face_Reality still incredibly inappropriate. However to exaggerate is almost giving them an out. Best to condemn them based on facts and not exaggerate.

[@elizabethbarajas8614]

He said it happened all throughout the years. It was just caught on camera once. How is that exaggerating?

[@mag5020]

Fred is a class act. Hope he finds peace

[@moniquewrites9046]

First class!

[@sIurpuff]

Mr Guttenberg is a good man, with a big but broken heart. I wish I could give him a very big hug. I’m so sorry Fred, the Guttenbergs and all other 16 families

[@stevennnn10]

The defense attorneys should lose their licenses for that middle finger!!

[@adorablegirl1559]

That was honestly cruel

[@TennesseeYaya]

@Steven You are exactly right

[@AshikaUmanga]

what was that?

[@stevennnn10]

@@AshikaUmanga look up on KZbin his attorney gave the middle finger to the court room while laughing with the killer

[@yasmin1261]

It was a joke

[@Momster89]

Wow. What an amazing speech by a man in pain. Condolences to all the families.

[@avrilblanchefisher8432]

So true. This judge is outstanding.

[@UnhungHero]

Outstandingly bad. She lost control of her courtroom and it will likely play favorably towards an appeal by the defense.

[@debfoley9726]

Mr. & Mrs. Guttenberg, I am so sorry for what you have endured. Thank you both for your mission to bring service animals to victims of gun violence. To be able to help others try to cope after such a horric experience, speaks volumes about your character, integrity, and human decency. Bless you all.🙏

[@thedenzo8558]

They have every right to be angry with the defence ... even tho it was not their decision of no death penalty.... Because them becoming besties with the killer, and laughing and joking and hugging and playing around with him... THAT was what got them outraged. THAT display of compassion and friendly attitude they had with their child killer... THAT caused this !

[@TennesseeYaya]

Heck that fact (them talking, giggling, touching, letting him sip coffee) has infuriated me all through the trial.

[@lynns5675]

How sad that he said "the next time someone does what you did we'll be there to support them". When will this stop. No parent should have to live this nightmare and no kids should have to live with the fear of not coming home from school.

[@bobbiec2829]

Sadly I don't see it stopping until laws are changed and I don't see that happening either. There's a large percentage of the US vehemently opposed to gun control. Unfortunately this is just going to keep happening. It's disgusting.

[@maryannr8464]

Defense in this case are truly disgusting, dispirited, desperate, despicable to even suggest that the family’s were inciting violence . I hope this case haunts them .

[@zachbills8112]

Several of these parents used their speeches to call for fellow inmates to extort, rape, torture, or murder Cruz. I don't blame them for feeling this way and I might have done the same thing if in their position. However, they are still plainly inciting violence toward him and Cruz's attorney's are not out of line to point that out.

[@UnhungHero]

The judge hugging the prosecution after the trial may play favorably to a Cruz appeal, not that he deserves one, but the defense may use that against her.

[@sharibailey2148]

@@UnhungHero so disgusting how this trail went! The defense lawyers were inappropriate and disgustingly un professional and giving the court the finger , she needs to be disbarred ! And to think 7 lawyers defending a confessed killer! Seriously a mistrial? So beyond belief!!!!!!!!!!

[@somehaloguy9372]

@@UnhungHero who tf is gonna appeal when the defense got what they wanted? They ain't gonna appeal the ruling they were going for the whole time and the state isn't going to put the families through another trial.

[@johnfitzgerald6319]

What a bunch of thin skinned woosies. It is one way, the families had to sit there and be silent for four plus years. While the DB defense attorneys can twist it around to make themselves the victims? incredible. If they found out that a victim's favorite color was pink and a dad wore a pink tie they would be whining for a mistrial.

[@iamwtl]

I dont think I would have the strength to see my child killed in a video. Iz would haunt me forever.

[@OdiesMama]

There's no way. I just don't think I could do it.

[@johnleeder7682]

Absolutely not because it's not the video you fear but the very thoughts the Devil might put in your head when you watch it!

[@Face_Reality]

They watched it to honor their daughter and be a part of every moment she had to endure and to know exactly what happened. They felt they should see it out of love. They are strong. No parent wants to see it, but many watch it to feel connected to their child. Many parents would feel guilty to avoid watching what their own child had to actually experience. Being a parent takes a lot of strength. It's no easy role. I'm sure it was excruciating for them to watch, but for them to avoid watching it would be like they aren't there with their child through the pain their child had to endure. A parent would take on all the pain for their child if they could.

[@glamdolly30]

@@Face_Reality Spot on! I cannot imagine a more heartbreaking, horrific experience than watching a loved one be murdered. But I would do it for that loved one, so I could feel I had suffered it with them in some way, and been with them emotionally in their last moments. The parents who have spoken in these traumatic proceedings have all been sheer class, dignity and humanity personified. They obviously raised great children who were set to make wonderful, positive contributions to the world - which makes their senseless loss all the more terrible.

[@prokesuk]

They all gave amazing statements and were very dignified. I hope they can find peace in some way.

[@JOhnDoe-pi9jj]

Fred truly loves his daughter and immensely heart broken. HIs passion is evident through this statement. F the Parkland Shooter.

[@codeinecrazyfuture]

🎯

[@Al-rm6iz]

This dad’s final say reached deep into my heart and soul.

[@Zach_Z_97615]

If this was in a movie, he would have won best actor. Incredible speech and much love to the families would have lost their loved ones.

[@lolly5453]

This man is 💪🏼 no surprise his daughter was tough. And I’m sure she would be immensely proud of his strength and this statement. Praying for peace for this family and all of the families affected by this unthinkable crime. 🙏🏼🕊💗

[@lolly5453]

@Jason Voorhees thats what he said.....

[@lolly5453]

@Jason Voorhees I don’t care how tough you are, you’re not likely to take on a rampaging killer and his AR-15, particularly not when you’re an unarmed schoolgirl. Even the strongest of us would struggle to fight back in that situation.

[@vomo767]

Amazing people who have withstood disgusting behaviour from this defence gang of thugs, what a statement, these families have to be commended for their strength and resolve!

[@melbellgrn8309]

What an amazing heartfelt, passionate and clear impact statement. God bless these families. 😢

[@jph2455]

You’re a true inspiration to fathers everywhere, including me. I am a new father to a 6mo old baby girl. It’s a scary world and only seems to be getting scarier. Thank you for your strength and continuing to look out for our children. Peace and love ❤️

[@bpassion4fashion581]

Powerful. Articulate. Your daughter is so proud of you . They all heard you in heaven; may this tragedy bring tremendous change for gun law in this country.

[@mattchu42069]

This is a horrible tragedy. Prayers for all involved. But I do not wish any gun laws to change. Criminals and crazy people have no problem getting firearms the illegal way. Changing gun laws will only hurt law abiding citizens and help the crazies

[@ThePratech]

WOW, I am Speechless. My Prayers & God's Strength to y'all the Family members

[@alexissifuentes5567]

I’m so glad that he said what we have ALL been wanting to say to these sorry excuse of lawyers.

[@idaniaportal6768]

My heart is broken for this dad.

[@aysada]

This defense team has so much bad karma coming their way. I don’t know a single person who saw their behavior and heard their claims who don’t condemn that legal team. They are reprehensible.

[@NancyD2]

Yea. They are and did fly way too close to Karma. They’re afraid of their children being threatened. Well….. that’s their doing.

[@cyn4476]

I'm glad to see Mr. Guttenberg is still doing this work. It's horrifying that it took this monster, taking away Jaime, to set him on fire. The fight needs his fire. I sincerely hope that he can set aside the anger, yet keep that passion. The anger is only going to destroy him.

[@mitchweber7868]

These guys really get enough publicity to quit their day jobs, and start some organization to "help" people?? That's wild.

[@kepecos]

@@mitchweber7868 Meaning what? Who are “these guys?”

[@raineyj560]

@@mitchweber7868 he probably was given a leave of absence

[@mitchweber7868]

@@kepecos I mean the victims of the shooting. They all get a leave of absence from work? Crazy I didn't know that.

[@kepecos]

@@mitchweber7868 I hope they do. If you're victims in a criminal case, I'm not sure how that works or if there is standard protocol in most work places.

[@rachillntx379]

This man needs to be heard

[@Face_Reality]

We hear him.. pointless comment. He's right about everything he's saying. Wonderful statement he made.

[@rachillntx379]

@@Face_Reality you're pointless.

[@tammiekennedy7490]

WHAT AN ABSOLUTE AMAZING FATHER AND MOTHER 😪😪😪 I HAVE NO WORDS 😪😪😪 MY HEART GOES OUT TO ALL THOSE FAMILIS 💔

[@servraghgiorsal7382]

This man is eloquent and honest

[@im_camilas_fav]

The defense is lucky that no one jumped the tables to punch each one of them in their throats.

[@skwak3041]

It’ll happen … their contact information is out there, people will find them. Weeks is a marked man and at least one of those fathers looks like he knows some bad people, he better keep looking over his shoulder.

[@elv1980]

@@skwak3041 who is weeks

[@shnoop1655]

I'm literally sobbing hearing this from you Sir! My heart and prayers are with you and those parents whol lost their children with the brutality of this sitting monster in the room

[@jiovanna4136]

Omg this is heart wrenching...my heart hurts for this dad...for him to see a Actual video of his daughter being killed is a nightmare...I can't imagine. I would faint. Sending my love to this extraordinary dad. My Heart truly goes out to you sir. 😔🙏

[@dramallamamama]

Way to call the defense out, not on doing their job, but the irresponsible way they behaved throughout this trial.

[@solidsnook]

If words were punches, the guy would have f*cked up the entire defense team beyond recognition. Much respect for you sir.

[@ridleycobain2468]

Oooof when he was talking about his heart issues while in court, and then said he has a broken heart…that hit me right in the feels. I had to stop and cry for a minute.

[@zzhughesd]

Almost brought tears to my eyes, I'm a 45 year old bloke followed trial from UK. I never shed a tear. What these families have gone through and no death penalty

[@bryannguyen8440]

Well written mate

[@Vulture2918]

Shout out the uk

[@Gmoney00718]

Bloke is a funny word

[@F-R78]

I'm from the UK too… I was bawling my eyes out through the entire trial pretty much.

[@cossettecunilleramuniz458]

OMG this is so painful 😢 💔

[@rbrtpongo]

I support Fred Guttenberg he is right.

[@ivyannieayala2880]

i’m so sorry to this father and all the families mourning a loss that is so gratuitous. We need to do better for our youth. This should never have happened.

[@shannonbowman5833]

This father is absolutely amazing with his words. 😢

[@juliamanis3219]

You are an amazing father. This is powerful, touching. I am so sorry from one parent to another.

[@xoelisamarie]

The disgusting actions of the defense should have been enough for a mistrial. I am so sorry, Fred and the rest of the families. This is appalling.

[@teachermichelle9632]

A mistrial is exactly what the defence wants. Another opportunity to get this guy free. To win. To disrespect a judge. To belittle VICTIMS.

[@elizagrogan9454]

@@teachermichelle9632 Yes, they really hoped their vile actions would get another trial, and more money from the taxpayers. Their behaviour was appalling.

[@imnotgivingyoumyname810]

A mistrial Is the one thing the victims don't want to have happen. They didn't want a mistrial. The defense wanted a mistrial. That's why a mistrial was not called.

[@zachbills8112]

@@teachermichelle9632 He pead guilty and this was only a sentencing. A mistrial now is not possible and if granted would give the state another shot at the death penalty. They asked for mistrials earlier on for two reasons. First, due to the high expense and emotional impact of the proceedings the State might accept a life sentence instead of redoing the trial. Secondly, if he were sentenced to death the appellate courts can reconsider the mistrial requests and potentially vacate the sentence and we would go back to square one.

[@TeW33zy]

@@teachermichelle9632 are you just dumb or slow. Maybe your just dumb. This is not guilty or not this is just death penalty or not. The prosecution lost and he got life instead. If it were say a mistrial then the prosecutor would get another chance to get this guy the death penalty. So wt tf are you saying?

[@dan_2584]

“I can’t imagine what these families are going through” doesn’t even come close to what I feel seeing this. Unimaginable

[@chrisgreen1904]

The pain this caused and the lives its destroyed is just devastating

[@cristoburn4778]

I have my bad days but then when I see this I feel stupid. The pain these people have had to endure is unimaginable. I’m so sorry for what y’all are going through. There’s no words. 💔

[@cristoburn4778]

@@kristyc1046 Of course, but sometimes something this heavy just puts it all into perspective. I still have my health, my loved ones, and sometimes we let dumb things consume us to a point where it’s unhealthy and a bit small and ridiculous in the grand scheme of things. We gotta be grateful. But I get what you’re saying forsure.

[@terryo9185]

The rage that swept through me watching this, and this father speak his emotion, and speak for his daughter, and speak directly to that living piece of trash 🗑, I can't even imagine being in his shoes!!🙏😥😡

[@justrelaxing2721]

Agreed 👍👍😎✌️

[@ryanfraser167]

Always amazed at how much strength and grace Fred and other parents have, and he really did speak truth. How he and other parents find the resolve to campaign against school violence is remarkable, and his work to promote and create therapy dogs is amazing as they really do help in so many ways 😎😎👏♥️

[@deblopez2571]

OH MY GOD, I cannot fathom the strength this father had to keep his composer together to make such an astounding statement, my heart is beyond hurting watching and listening to his every word. I cannot imagine what he and all of the family members are feeling and have felt from that fateful Valentines Day in 2018 to what they will all feel in their futures. The words I am sorry is not enough and never will be. We need to do so much better in every fiber in our beings as a society to make sure this does not happen, but then again it continues to happen. I am saddened as to what this world has become. I am heart broken for anyone and everyone who has to endure the aftermath of what is beyond guiltless cruelty. We all have been gifted with life on earth to flourish, not to have it taken away just because an individual decides I am going to take that way from you just because he or she can without a care in the world!!! Heartbroken in VA 💔

[@harukoito918]

Thank you for showing all of us what strength looks like.

[@nickyp310]

"I saw the video of you. You, killing my daughter." I was already in tears from the last video and this just sent me over the edge. I never could have mustered the composure or eloquence that Mr. Guttenberg showed here. I don't know if I could have let my words speak for me. Prison's going to deliver ungodly suffering on him, but i would have walked over and closed fist punched the middle finger lady lawyer. I'd have sent her home with some memories.

[@happeedaze1]

Powerful words.

[@lilkoutsi]

i'm crying right now. I hope that all of these parents feel they have closure and may all their children rest in peace.

[@historms]

I have always looked at Fred as a sort of leader for this community of brave suffering victims who has made a point to ensure the families stand united.

[@briansirak906]

How these families didn't rush the defense table and that pos is unbelievable. Great family testimony all brought me to tears. I wish all of you peace and love in your lives.

[@Aleka1943]

I love this fathers presentation. God bless him and all the families and friends.

[@Aliyahmariamusic]

These families are the pillar of strength. As a Florida mother I’m proud that after all they have endured they still can immaculately present the impact of this disgusting man

[@Foxesandpoems]

Oh my god …. how this broke my heart. As a mother, I am just utterly shattered for these families. His mention of watching her be murdered, of never walking her down the aisle. I am so devastated for these people.

[@patricejeasley_1974]

I love this man. I have so much respect for him. 🙏🏾🕊

[@C.I366]

the worse nightmare for a parent. But even worse, a young person's life cut short

[@technerdgaming9259]

From one father who has lost his child to another... I'm with you and I am happy you had the opportunity to speak on your daughter's behalf after 4 years. I have waited 10 years so far do that and I will! I have 3 years remaining and I can't wait to get my closure as you have yours.

[@veronikaortega420]

From Germany... I feel deep deep sympathy with you. I am so sorry and si sick that crimes and pains as such are still happening in America

[@BettyWhite2171]

Is the jury in the courtroom listening to this?

[@Alliancenoobslayer]

No, they are just there to listen to the evidence and make the ruling. They don't get to hear the victims impact statement, it's an opportunity for the families to speak to the offender. Hope this helps.

[@NancyD2]

I believe that’s up to the individual juror.

[@raineyj560]

@@NancyD2 I don't think they dared to show their face at the sentencing.

[@katiedunlap235]

been waiting a long time for the parents to look cruz in the eyes and address him directly.

[@tarralynne9256]

My heart is breaking for the families. Your children live in my heart forever. Peace & Love 🙏❤️☮️

[@chanteviastapleton]

This gave me chills 🥺🥺 God Bless him and all these families

[@sherryhunt3995]

Oh, I love this man’s honesty! I love seeing the thankfulness and respect the judge felt. This kid is going to live a miserable life.

[@lealovesthesea]

This man has so much integrity, and has been so productive despite the unthinkable, the unimaginable. God bless him and all these families.

[@Ebenezer456]

This man spoke so powerfully and sincerely. Wow, I'm blown away listening to this.

[@elizabethnahanee3285]

Thanks you're an honourable judge thanks for your strength

[@salishseas]

Powerful. I hope he succeeds in his quest to make us safer from the violence that took his dear daughter. God speed.

[@llllIllIIl]

damn. that was powerful. stronger man than me, I would’ve lunged at that little gremlin.

[@eileensmith6361]

Well said Sir

[@elsathedemonwolf1035]

No words can help here what a tragedy, may god be with the families ❤

[@xxiiiaresxxiii3505]

Both those moms speech and the dads speech gave me chills they seem like such very loving people and seemed like they were wonderful parents God Bless them and the rest of the victims idk if I could have the patience courage and honor to stand there and nonviolently explain my pain and suffering to the person who caused my pain and suffering God bless them

[@92retsekoj]

This defense team is the poster child for what's wrong with our judicial system.

[@angelinaanderson481]

The world sees these scumbag attorneys who give families of victims the bird. Don’t give them jobs…. They should suffer the consequences and be disbarred.

[@littlebird1065]

Mr .Guttenberg your statement truly touched my heart your Jamie was so blessed to have a father like you,please take care of your heart as you have much work to do,you are truly inspirational 🙏🏽💪🏽🗣🙋🏽‍♀️🪶

[@N0B0DYC4RE]

Composed even while, rightfully so, angry and in pain. My knees would break under the pressure if I was in his shoes. Idek if we should leave a comment he said everything.😔

[@annettepora8091]

Fred is an amazing person. His dedication will move mountains an inch at a time.

[@rockyv1balboa776]

To Think That this Poor Man Wasn't going to Speak until 10 O'clock this Morning 💯 Thank God we got to hear these Words today Cos I Can't imagine What he's going through but I'm So Glad he Confronted the Monster with Words That Surely let us See just a little bit of What These Poor Parents had to go Through 💯 💔 Deepest Sincerest Condolences 🙏🏻 from Cardiff Wales UK 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿✌🏻

[@sharibailey2148]

Without a doubt!

[@mms21-]

Oh my heart is so heavy for all of these families. Hold your loved ones tight.

[@seastar3611]

EPIC - and the defense deserved every word.

[@jessgarcia4587]

I am sorry Sr. I can feel your pain and there’s still no words from anyone of us to make you or your wife make you feel better..

[@jaclynsmith3563]

When this father called the troll Howdy Doody that was great

[@rgood15]

Powerful and moving.

[@ernestholloway9436]

I pray for healing for those families who lost ones. I hope that monster burn in hell with there lawyers.

[@johnrobertbainbridge7667]

I have a daughter & I can't imagine what these families have had to go through, sorry is no way enough.

[@dannydrew3685]

So powerful!😢❤

[@jillcnc]

Fred Guttenberg is a reluctant hero but he is a hero just the same. He has been a tireless advocate for sensible gun laws and a fierce protector of his daughter's legacy. There is no healing for these families, but they all deserve our admiration and their children deserve to remain in ALL our memories. In that way, their memory WILL forever be a blessing.

[@teiece7890]

EVERYONE should be watching the statements from this trial.

[@J.C....]

Fred is a special someone. Such an awesome guy!! 💙💙

[@LuckySpinster.]

These families have delivered the much needed truth. Incredible, all of them.

[@ceciliaramos2280]

I have such great respect for this man. Bravo to you sir. I am so sorry for your loss. May your daughter Rest In Peace. ❤️

[@mikeflo6459]

The defense team should be sent to prison as well. The way those families where treated by them is unbelievable. Mocking the victims families and flipping them off. Respect to the families

[@joshuamarx9547]

That constant blank stare on the killer's face. Is that because he is heavily medicated? Or is he really just that emotionally vapid, and truly evil in its purest form. It is so creepy.

[@ryanstatt9910]

Either way, I know I'd love 1 minute alone with that ret*rd. And I wouldn't be nearly as composed as that father was...

[@casualcadaver]

Another MKUltra victim

[@ryanstatt9910]

@@casualcadaver ???

[@audreyriley5836]

Soulless

[@debbiemcdonald8928]

Prayers for strength with each and everyone who lost a loved one in this tragedy. Love you guys.

[@noraammirati1136]

The bravery of these parents has me in awe and tears. My heart goes out to them.