Council on Criminal Justice

Trans Woman Faces Assault Charges For Self Defense Under Wyoming’s Stand Your Ground Law

A trans woman in Wyoming, Rihanna Kelver, faces felony charges after drawing a gun on a man who allegedly shouted homophobic slurs and pushed her to the ground. Despite Wyoming’s “Stand Your Ground” statute and video evidence suggesting self-defense against multiple aggressors, Kelver faces significant prison time and fines. The charges have shifted multiple times, with felony charges recently reinstated after plea negotiations failed. Kelver maintains her actions were a defensive response to a perceived threat, emphasizing her intent to address the facts in court.

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Mom Sentenced 35 Years for Facilitating Teen Sex Assaults

Following a conviction for grooming children and facilitating sexualized, alcohol-fueled parties, Shannon O’Connor was sentenced to 35 years and 10 months, the maximum for her crimes. This sentence comes after extensive victim impact statements in a packed courtroom, with prosecutors detailing O’Connor’s role in nonconsensual sexual activity among minors. While O’Connor’s defense plans to appeal, victims and their families expressed satisfaction, viewing the sentence as a measure of justice for years of alleged grooming and manipulation.

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Trump ICE Deporting Crime Victims, Witnesses and Defendants Before Trial

A new congressional report alleges that the Trump administration’s mass deportation efforts have significantly disrupted criminal prosecutions nationwide. By removing crime victims, witnesses, and even defendants mid-trial, these actions have effectively handed “get-out-of-jail-free” cards to criminals, preventing convictions and leaving victims without justice. This approach is described as actively sabotaging the justice system, undermining public safety and due process by creating a culture of impunity and forcing immigrants further into the shadows.

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Superdry Co-Founder Jailed For Rape

The recent news regarding Superdry co-founder James Holder, who has been jailed for the rape of a woman, has undoubtedly sent ripples of shock and disgust through many. This news brings into stark focus the disturbing allegations of his criminal behavior, overshadowing the brand he helped build. The details emerging from the court proceedings paint a grim picture, with the victim bravely recounting her ordeal.

The narrative shared by the woman during the trial highlights the harrowing experience of her crying and pleading with Holder, a married father of two, to stop his assault, only for him to continue. This testimony underscores the gravity of the accusations and the courage it takes for victims to come forward and recount such traumatic events.… Continue reading

Poland’s Massive Anti-Pedophile Operation Detains 123

It’s truly significant news that a massive operation in Poland has led to the detention of 123 individuals suspected of pedophilia. This kind of large-scale action is a stark reminder of the persistent threat that such abhorrent crimes pose to societies worldwide. The sheer number apprehended in this single operation highlights the extensive reach and disturbing reality of child sexual abuse. It’s a testament to the dedication of law enforcement agencies when they undertake such a comprehensive effort to root out these offenders.

The immediate reaction to this news often involves a strong sense of justice and a fervent wish for similar actions to be taken everywhere.… Continue reading

NYPD Officer Sentenced For Fatal Cooler Throw

A former New York City police sergeant has been sentenced to three to nine years in prison for manslaughter in the death of Eric Duprey. The sergeant tossed a cooler at Duprey, who was fleeing on a motorized scooter, causing him to crash and die. This marks the first time in at least two decades an NYPD officer has been imprisoned for an on-duty death. The judge rejected the sergeant’s defense that his actions were justified, concluding he was upset the suspect was escaping.

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Alabama Commutes Death Sentence for Man Who Didn’t Kill Victim

Governor Kay Ivey commuted Charles “Sonny” Burton’s death sentence to life without parole, deeming his execution unjust due to the disparate punishment compared to the man who committed the murder. Burton was involved in a 1991 robbery that resulted in a customer’s death, but he did not fire the fatal shot and had left the scene before the killing occurred. The governor cited the legal doctrine of felony murder, which held Burton accountable for the homicide, but contrasted this with the life sentence received by the actual triggerman. This decision followed appeals for clemency, including a plea from the victim’s daughter, and avoided Burton becoming the second individual executed under Alabama’s new nitrogen gas method.

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Alexander Brothers Convicted of All Sex Trafficking Charges

The Alexander brothers have been found guilty of all charges in their sex-trafficking trial, a verdict that brings a close to a case filled with disturbing allegations and courtroom drama. This outcome signifies a significant moment, suggesting that even those with privilege and influence are not entirely beyond the reach of justice.

The trial’s progression was not without its complexities, as prosecutors ultimately dropped two counts due to intimidation tactics employed by the defense. It was revealed that a private investigator, hired by the defense team, allegedly impersonated an insurance agent to gather information about a crucial accuser, even inquiring about her children and visiting her neighborhood.… Continue reading

Trump Pardoned Jan 6 Rioter Now Convicted of Child Molestation

A Jan. 6 rioter, Andrew Paul Johnson, who received a presidential pardon from Donald Trump, has been convicted of serious child sex offenses in Florida. Johnson was found guilty by a jury on five charges, including molesting minors and transmitting harmful materials electronically. Prosecutors stated Johnson attempted to use an anticipated financial payout from the Trump administration as a way to silence one of his victims. Johnson faces a potential life sentence when he is sentenced in March.

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Attempted Trump Assassin Sentenced to Life in Prison Amid Controversy

The recent sentencing of an individual who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump has sent ripples through the nation, bringing to the forefront complex questions about justice, mental health, and the impartiality of the legal system. The accused, identified as Routh, was found guilty and handed a life sentence plus an additional seven years, a penalty that has sparked considerable debate, especially given the highly charged political landscape surrounding the former president. The narrative begins with Routh allegedly hiding in the bushes near the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, a military-grade SKS rifle pointed directly at Trump and a Secret Service agent.… Continue reading