Chapter 9 - The Verdict and Beyond
The jury deliberated for less than two hours.
The overwhelming medical documentation, the undeniable hallway security footage, and my direct testimony created an airtight case. Richard Vance was convicted on all counts of primary felony child abuse, aggravated assault on a minor, and criminal endangerment.
At the sentencing hearing two weeks later, Judge Montgomery handed down a strict sentence: twelve years in state prison without the possibility of early parole for the first eight years. In addition, the judge granted a permanent, lifelong restraining order prohibiting Richard from ever contacting or coming within one thousand feet of me.
Vanessa, who had been brought back to face secondary charges of failure to report child abuse and obstruction, accepted a plea bargain that resulted in three years of supervised probation and mandatory community service.
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When the judge’s gavel struck the sound block for the final time, sealing Richard’s fate, a massive weight lifted off my shoulders. As Richard was led away in handcuffs to begin serving his sentence, he turned back to look at us one last time. But Evelyn didn't hide my eyes, and I didn't turn away. I stood beside my grandmother, holding her hand, looking right back at him without fear.
The story was over for Richard, but for Evelyn and me, a whole new chapter was just beginning.
