Parkland Victim's Sister Andrea Ghersi Gives Final Statement Before Shooter's Sentencing

Victims’ families get their final say in court prior to the sentencing of the Parkland school shooter. The statements follow a nearly three-month trial, after which a jury of seven men and five women could not unanimously agree on the death penalty for the convicted killer, resulting in a life sentence.

[RT-dkyv]

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. She looks so like her mother and dishes it out just the same. Blessings to the Oliver family I am in awe of your strength. Beautiful people.

[CincinnatusPublish]

Never before have I heard of a defense team being so rude and unprofessional to the point that during the impact statements they were called out for their behavior.

[smal]

This woman has more class and integrity than all of the defense team combined.

[InTheNameOfLife]

I’m SO GLAD she called out that horrific statement and conduct by the lawyers. Absolutely. How DARE he say “nobody has had to go through what we have in this courtroom” when the parents and siblings had to look at graphic images and details about the slaughter of these kids. Absolutely tasteless, classless, unprofessional little babies.

[leadwithlove]

As an immigrant to this country I felt most connected with her family's story. They came from Venezuela for a better life and became US citizens just a few years prior to the tragic murder of her brother Joaquin Oliver. How horrific is it when you come to a country for a better life to have such a tragedy happen to you I feel so much for them. Thank you Andrea for using your words to speak up against the injustice. Sending love to all victim's families.

[kayprivate]

Their job was to defend the murderer, that's it. What they aren't required by law to do is, coddle him, laugh with him, make jokes, flip the bird, disrespect the victims & their families and show more compassion for the murderer then the victims. They aren't required to do these things, yet they chose to do this. It really speaks volumes on what kind of people they truly are.

[lesley]

loved when she used McNeil's own words against her.

[tianaleh]

this statement is actually very epic. the last part of her speech where she calls out the defense, she literally quotes WORD FOR WORD what the defense told the jury to guilt the jury into not giving the killer the death sentence, that it was their “moral decision” they would have to live with if they sentenced him to death. their family is so strong and i’m sure her brother is proud.

[guitarkatie]

“I hope your fellow inmates take real nice and cozy care of you”. To all the families please know WE the public know the names and lives of your loved ones and THEY will be remembered. Although our justice system failed you, justice will come for him in a non-humane way at an unplanned time. RIP to Joaquin, Alyssa, Alaina, Nickolas, Peter, Scott, Meadow, Chris, Martin, Aaron, Jamie, Luke, Cara, Carmen, Gina, Helena and Alex. Prosecution was flawless. Horrible display by the defense, they should all consider resigning.The parkland murderer has lost his spotlight today. He’s in with the rest of his kind, and no one needs to make sure he stays alive to stand trail.

[NoDetourAhead]

How embarrassing for the defense team. To be called out on their childish and petty behavior. This trial is going to do nothing for its popularity.

[debs_]

Powerful and full of truth. I am very happy that she decided to speak. She said exactly how we felt and what we thought yesterday. Prayers for all the victims and to their families and loved ones.

[marionpolk]

This young lady has class. Praying for everyone involved 🙏❤

[DaveHalpernShortSale]

Public defender Gordon Weekes thinks that he and his staff are the victims. Who thinks he should resign in disgrace?

[trevortec]

beautiful speech, i hope her and all the other victims can find peace eventually.

[stevoschannel]

I love this woman, her beauty, her passion, and her love for her family...Watching her take care of her mom, hugging her, brushing her hair, supporting her all the way. Ms. Ghersi you are one awesome woman.

[natt]

Joaquin was a gorgeous young man. He truly lightened all the event with his appearance. May you Rest In Peace little angel!

[mjwarren]

"out of touch, " perfect description. Choosing cognitive dissonance "on demand, " can appear as complacency.

[crimegeek]

Love her sas with class! You are amazing!

[andrewrodriguez]

Damn now that’s a speech right there!!!

[dirtydingus]

Wonderful job Andrea! Very sorry you even have to experience this. My condolences to you, your family and victims and families involved! God Bless