Sometimes, people get what they deserve, and bad things happen to bad people.
Ghislaine Maxwell, a former girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein, was convicted on Dec. 29, 2021, for sex trafficking of a minor, transporting a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity and three other counts of conspiracy.
Maxwell now faces up to 65 years in prison. But, this is something she’s had time to get used to. Her initial arrest took place in July of 2020. On multiple occasions, she tried to get out on bail. Every time she was denied because the judge felt she was a flight risk.
For many, Maxwell’s conviction restores hope in the justice system.
U.S. attorney Damian Williams spoke about the significance of this case. “The road to justice has been far too long. But, today, justice has been done,” he said. “I want to commend the bravery of the girls – now grown women – who stepped out of the shadows and into the courtroom.”
Seeing victims from years ago come forward and share their stories will encourage other victims to come forward as well. The idea of confronting som
eone with such high status can be daunting to some.
Looking at cases like R. Kelly’s, justice can take years to be served. Kelly was first sued for sexual misconduct in 1996. Since then, he has had multiple sexual misconduct issues settled outside of the courtroom. He was only truly convicted of his actions in 2021.
Several came forward sharing their stories about Kelly, but they also had to wait a long time to see a just decision be made. This can dissuade people from feeling it is worth it to come forward.
Still, it is important that victims continue to do so. It is only when they share their stories that justice can be served. “To now see the conviction and punishment of those powerful individuals, who have long term carried out horrific examples of abuse, hopefully, reflects progress in protecting all individuals against this kind of abuse,” said PV’s history and government teacher Joe Youngbauer.
Four witnesses testified against Maxwell during the trial recalling instances of sexual abuse. They also recalled the way Maxwell befriended them before instigating relations between the girls and Epstein.
By the end of the trial, when it was the defense’s turn to call witnesses, Maxwell felt she was in a good position. When deciding whether or not to testify she said, “The government has not proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt and so, there is no reason for me to testify.”
In essence, Maxwell basically solidified her own downfall.
Progress was made and s little justice restored, on Dec. 29, 2021, for the victims of Epstein and Maxwell and victims everywhere.
