Chapter 8 - The Arraignment ShowdownThe federal courthouse at Foley Square was packed with journalists on Thursday morning for the formal arraignment.
Julian was led into the courtroom in an orange jumpsuit, his hands and feet bound in steel shackles. The arrogant, slick-haired brother who had punched me in church was gone. He looked hollow, unwashed, and broken, staring fixedly at the floor.
Judge Harrison took the bench and reviewed the charges.
“Julian Sterling, the grand jury has returned a thirty-count indictment including Grand Larceny, Wire Fraud, Aggravated Identity Theft, and Felony Burglary. How do you plead?”
Julian’s public defender stood up. “Your Honor, my client wishes to enter an immediate plea of guilty to all counts pursuant to a plea agreement, waiving all rights to appeal.”
Judge Harrison leaned forward. “Mr. Sterling, you understand that this plea includes full forfeiture of any claim against the Estate of Arthur Sterling and mandatory restitution of $6.8 million?”
Julian raised his head slowly. His eyes found me sitting in the front row, flanked by Samuel Price and Martha.
“I understand, Your Honor,” Julian muttered in a broken whisper. “I plead guilty.”
The crack of Judge Harrison’s gavel echoed through the courtroom like the closing of a heavy iron door. “Sentencing is set for November. The defendant is remanded to federal custody.”
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As Julian was led away, he looked at me through the glass partition and whispered, ‘I’m sorry, Elena.’
I met his gaze in silence. Some lessons must be learned the hard way, and some bridges cannot be rebuilt.
