Chapter 13 - THE PUBLIC SHAMING
A loud gasp erupted through the gallery as federal marshals stepped through the double doors at the back of the courtroom.
Jessica’s face turned bright red as she stood up, panic wildly flooding her eyes.
"This is ridiculous! I am the victim here! My husband was certified dead!" Jessica shrieked at the judge.
The JAG officer turned on a large digital monitor facing the judge and the jury box.
The security camera video from six months ago began playing in full high-definition sound and clarity.
The gallery watched in stunned silence as Jessica’s recorded voice echoed clearly through the courtroom speakers:
"I don't care where you bury Ethan, Brad... just make sure the insurance check clears before Christmas."
Judge Abernathy slammed her wooden gavel down three times to restore order as the crowd erupted into shouts of outrage.
"Order in the court! Order in the court!" the judge shouted, her face contorted in absolute disgust.
"Mrs. Vance, you are placed under immediate arrest for perjury, fraud, and child endangerment," Judge Abernathy ruled.
Federal marshals walked up to the plaintiff's table, forcefully pinning Jessica’s arms behind her back in steel handcuffs.
"Brad! Do something! Help me!" Jessica screamed as she was dragged down the center aisle of the court.
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Brad sat in the third row of the gallery, his face pale as he slowly backed toward the exit doors.
***
