Chapter 12 - The Trial of Silence
Six months later, the criminal trial of Victoria Vance and Julian Vance commenced at the County Courthouse.
The courtroom was packed to capacity with hotel workers, reporters, and members of the public. Elena sat in the front row of the gallery, dressed in a sharp black suit, her hands resting quietly in her lap.
Julian sat at the defense table in a navy prison jumpsuit, his hair graying rapidly, his corporate empire stripped away by federal receivership. Victoria sat beside her defense counsel, her posture slumping, her eyes fixed on the floor.
The prosecution called its primary witness: Maya Rostova.
Supported by a child advocate, seven-year-old Maya stood near the witness box. She wore a simple blue dress, her small voice carrying clearly through the silent courtroom as she answered the prosecutor's questions.
"She poured cold water on my head," Maya said softly, pointing her small finger directly at Victoria Vance. "And she hit my food away because I was hungry."
Victoria flinched as if struck by lightning, closing her eyes as muffled whispers of disgust rippled through the gallery.
May you like
The defense attorney declined to cross-examine the child.
After two days of deliberation, the jury returned a unanimous verdict: Victoria Vance was found guilty of felony child abuse and assault; Julian Vance was convicted on seventeen counts of corporate fraud, evidence tampering, and conspiracy.
