Chapter 9 - The Trial at the Federal District Court
Three weeks later, the United States District Court in Alexandria, Virginia was packed to maximum capacity.
National news outlets broadcast live coverage from the granite steps as black town cars pulled up to the curb.
Vivian arrived wearing her pristine Navy service uniform, guiding her two young daughters through the sea of cameras.
Inside the courtroom, Victoria and Chloe sat at the defense table, wearing orange institutional jump-suits instead of silk gowns.
The presiding judge, Honorable Marcus Vance, slammed his wooden gavel twice, bringing the courtroom to absolute silence.
“We are here for final sentencing in the matter of the United States versus Victoria Sterling,” Judge Vance announced.
The prosecutor stood up, presenting three thick black binders recovered from the hidden mansion vault.
“Your Honor, the prosecution submits clear evidence showing sixty million dollars diverted from Navy supply chains,” the prosecutor stated.
Victoria looked over her shoulder, searching the gallery for any remaining corporate allies.
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Every single seat in the courtroom was occupied by uniformed military officers and federal agents, all staring back at her with unyielding disgust.
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