Money Buys Powerful Attorneys, But Doesn’t Bring Back Victims of Crime
Money Buys Powerful Attorneys, But Doesn’t Bring Back Victims of Crime
Why this petition matters
On June 7, 2022, 18 year-old Usman Shahid killed 2 minor girls and injured a third who were walking home from Oakton High school in Vienna, Fairfax County of Virginia when he crashed into them after first striking a vehicle while driving 81 mph in a 35 mph zone. Failure to stop after the first crash with the truck seems to indicate he had intention in his actions just as driving 81 mph was voluntary, and intentional. As he sat waiting for the police, media reports he complained that his father would be upset about ruining the car, but did not inquire about the girls’ conditions. With great money and a powerful attorney, he is trying to avoid jail and all punishment for his choice to break the law, resulting in death. For one year, the defendant has been free on unsecured bond. The prosecutor was replaced and then he expected trial date delayed it to July 24, 2023.
On June 1, 2023, the prosecutor mentioned to the families of the victims that there is a possibility of no jail time due to consideration of leniency, because jail time is not a positive influence for a young man with such potential. Because his choice to break the law resulted in involuntary manslaughter, nothing could improve for the defendant if he were to go to jail. We, all victims’ families, were greatly surprised by this conversation. It is very weird, unjust and cruel. He chose to break the law recklessly and he killed two girls- we think he is the object of punishment. Fairfax County Court disregards the lives lost and horrible consequences for their families and thus regards him as the object of correction.
Failure to punish crime encourages crime.
Two young girls died, one has suffered because of aftereffects from being struck by Usman, requiring permanent treatment. Her mother has anxiety, fearing her child will develop a serious condition. In addition, Usman's insurance coverage is incredibly small. We paid all costs at our own expense including hospital fees, funeral, etc. without his insurance compensation. The mom of the injured girl was forced to extend her work to 7 days full time and the victim also works part time to help to pay the bill.
A minor victim of Usman’s choices and actions works to pay her own medical bills.
Please support justice over dollars and power. Please demand that reckless driving resulting in death incur a serious, just, punishment. Please send a message to young drivers: driving recklessly without regard for lives WILL result in consequences. Please sign this petition for the families of Usman’s victims and send the message that justice is deserved, Usman Shahid killed 2 girls and should face just jail time.
victim.ohs@gmail.com