By John Q. Hosedrinker Brianna Ghey’s killers have been handed life sentences for their brutal murder, and it’s about time that justice was served. The minimum sentence they received, 20 and 22 years respectively, ensures that they won’t be released before serving their time. Only then can they apply for parole, subject to convincing the parole board that they are no longer a danger. The strict criteria and the possibility of breaching their license and returning to prison should act as a deterrent.
The judge’s comments regarding the behavior of the girl who led the murder and her potential life in prison show the severity of this crime. The pictures of her break my heart, and these children are undeniably terrifying. They have shown themselves to be human trash, deserving of being locked up and having the key thrown away. The ringleader, Jenkinson, was even motivated by a “deep desire to kill,” making her an individual who will never be safe to reintegrate into society.
As the heartbreaking details of the chatlogs were revealed in court, it became clear that something had gone horribly wrong in these kids’ heads. Their attempts to make Brianna kill herself and their obsession with her, all while deadnaming and misgendering her, demonstrate a level of cruelty and hatred that is difficult to comprehend. Targeting someone with anxiety issues and using that against them is the epitome of cowardice.
The fact that Brianna was a transgender girl adds an additional layer of tragedy to this horrific crime. It reminds us why it is vital to address trans issues openly and in all spaces. Trans rights are human rights, and when we fail to acknowledge this, tragedies like the murder of Brianna can occur. When trans lives are treated as lesser, it can lead to violence and even murder, as was the case here.
Looking at the murderers, it’s hard not to be reminded of the angry transphobes who perpetuate hate and discrimination. The rage they display, whether online or in public spaces, raises concerns about how close some of these individuals are to taking physical action. It underscores the importance of challenging transphobic beliefs and ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.
It is gratifying to see that these murderers have been locked up and denied the chance to roam the streets. As someone who has followed this case from afar, I can say that justice has been served. The fact that their identities have finally been made public allows for a sense of accountability that is long overdue. This public disclosure should have happened sooner, considering the treatment Brianna faced even in death.
While prison abolition is a viewpoint I hold, the severity and brutality of this crime make it clear that these monsters need serious help. The carceral system we currently have may not be the answer, but it is essential to remove them from society to keep others safe. As a trans woman myself, I find solace in knowing that these individuals will be removed from society for a significant amount of time.
In conclusion, Brianna Ghey’s killers receiving life sentences for their brutal murder is a step towards justice. The sentence they received ensures that they won’t be released before serving a significant portion of their time. However, it is crucial that we continue to address transphobia and fight for the rights and safety of all marginalized communities. Brianna’s death should serve as a reminder of the consequences of hate and discrimination, and the importance of standing up against them. May Brianna rest in peace, and may her family find some measure of solace in this verdict.