Chapter 18
The jury deliberated for less than ninety minutes before returning a unanimous verdict of guilty on all counts of assault and civil rights violation.
Federal Judge Thomas Sterling—no relation to the disgraced family—delivered the final sentence without hesitation.
"Phoebe Sterling, your belief that personal wealth places you above the law is an affront to the judicial system of the United States," Judge Sterling declared coldly.
"I sentence you to five years in a federal correctional facility with no possibility of early parole."
Phoebe gasped audibly, bursting into desperate, uncontrolled tears as federal marshals grabbed her arms and led her away.
Arthur Sterling buried his face in his hands, realizing his dynasty was officially dead and buried.
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Outside the courthouse, flashing camera bulbs illuminated the autumn afternoon as Sarah walked down the stone steps.
Christian and Leo were waiting for her at the bottom, holding a small bouquet of yellow wildflowers.
