After a conviction in state court earlier this year, James Fields has pleaded guilty to federal charges in connection with the death of Heather Heyer and the injury of 28 others after a racist rally in Charlottesville. The U.S. Attorney and Heyer’s mother are both satisfied that Fields will spend the rest of his life in prison.
In exchange for his guilty plea on 29 charges, the U.S. Justice Department has agreed not to ask for the death penalty against 21-year-old James Fields. He was accused of crashing his car into a crowd of counter-protesters following a racist rally in Charlotteville – killing Heather Heyer and injuring 28 others. Federal prosecutor Thomas Cullen told reporters:
“While nothing can bring Heather back or make the other victims whole, it is our hope that this plea provides some closure and helps these victims move on with their lives,” he said after accepting the guilty plea.
Cullen said he was prepared to prosecute, but was satisfied with the agreement.
“I think any time you can save victims from having to go through a trial a second time you recognize the benefit of a life sentence.”
Heyer’s mother, Susan Bro, agreed. She has attended every court proceeding and says it doesn’t get easier.
"Court is always challenging – back to square one,” she said.
Bro said she regretted that he daughter was sacrificed but sure her death was making a difference.
"I don’t like the fact that my daughter was the sacrifice, but sadly it took a white girl dying before anybody paid attention to civil rights around here. The civil rights battle has gone on for the black community for 400 years now, and we didn’t pay attention.Heather’s death is at least a catalyst for change. I would not have made that choice. I wish we had woken up sooner.”
She then left the courthouse, heading for the meeting of a community group formed after August 12th of 2017 to battle bigotry.
This report, provided by Virginia Public Radio, was made possible with support from the Virginia Education Association.
