Chapter 21 - The National Broadcast
On the opening morning of the federal trial, national news networks broadcasted live footage from outside the courthouse steps.
Crowds of citizens gathered behind metal barricades, holding signs demanding maximum sentences for the corporate syndicate leaders.
Victor Sterling was escorted from an armored van by four federal marshals, shielding his face from a barrage of flashing camera bulbs.
Inside the courtroom, the mahogany benches were packed to capacity with journalists, legal experts, and federal observers.
Judge Katherine Vance struck her gavel down with sharp, resonant authority, calling the historic proceeding to order.
"The United States versus Victor Sterling and associated co-conspirators is now officially in session," the judge announced clearly.
Prosecutor Thomas Reed stood at the podium, his posture upright and dignified as he addressed the twelve-person jury.
"For decades, the defendants believed their wealth and influence placed them above the laws of this nation," Thomas began eloquently.
"Today, we prove that in an American courtroom, every citizen stands equal before the scales of justice," he declared.
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The trial progressed with devastating precision as witness after witness dismantled the defense's fabricated alibis.
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