Chapter 9 - The Federal Gavel of Social Justice
Six months later, Courtroom 3A of the United States District Court delivered the final criminal and civil decrees.
Grisham and Vincent Cole sat at the defense table in bright orange federal detention jumpsuits, their former arrogance completely pulverized by forensic audits exposing millions in commercial kickbacks and labor exploitation.
Chief Judge Eleanor Sterling took the bench with severe, uncompromising moral authority.
"Grisham, Vincent Cole," Judge Sterling declared, her voice echoing through the silent stone chamber. "You built a parasitic network of intimidation against the most vulnerable, hardworking members of this community."
Judge Sterling brought down her heavy wooden gavel with a resounding crack.
"Grisham is hereby sentenced to twelve years at the Federal Correctional Institution, Fairton, without the possibility of early parole."
"Vincent Cole is sentenced to eight years in federal custody, followed by permanent revocation of all municipal badges."
Judge Sterling struck the gavel a second time.
"All liquidated commercial properties formerly controlled by the Vendor Association are permanently transferred to the Lena Vance Foundation for Public Welfare."
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As the federal marshals hauled the weeping convicts through the iron holding door forever, Lena and Maya stood in the front row of the gallery, their hands tightly interlaced.
Justice was complete, unshakeable, and eternal.
