Chapter 20
Two weeks after the penthouse fire, the federal district court in Manhattan resembled a heavily fortified military fortress. Senator Arthur Sterling, Bianca Vance, and David Vance stood side by side inside the defendant's box. 3
Judge Harrison presided over the courtroom with stern, unyielding authority, his gavel striking the wooden bench to silence the gallery. "You stand accused of federal racketeering, corporate embezzlement, conspiracy, and domestic terrorism," Judge Harrison declared sternly.
The trial lasted a mere three days, as the mountain of digital evidence, audio tapes, and confessions left zero room for doubt. When the jury foreman stood up to read the verdict sheets, an absolute, breathless silence blanketed the courtroom.
"Guilty on all counts for all defendants, Your Honor," the foreman stated clearly and resonantly across the room. Bianca slumped forward in her chair, weeping uncontrollably as her manicured facade finally dissolved into pathetic despair.
David stared blankly ahead at the wooden wall, realizing his multi-year criminal enterprise had completely evaporated into nothingness. Judge Harrison did not hesitate when sentencing time arrived the following Monday morning.
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"I sentence Arthur Sterling, Bianca Vance, and David Vance to consecutive life terms in federal maximum-security prison without parole." The heavy gavel slammed down with a resounding crack that echoed the permanent end of their corrupt dynasty.
Federal marshals immediately escorted the three prisoners away through the heavy steel side doors into permanent isolation.
