Following a four-day trial, a federal jury found Daqua Lameek Ritter, a South Carolina man, guilty of all charges in the indictment related to the murder of Dime Doe, a Black transgender woman.
The charges included one hate crime count, one federal firearms count, and one obstruction count.
Government Officials React to Verdict
Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer emphasized the Justice Department’s commitment to holding accountable those involved in bias-motivated acts of violence.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke called the verdict historic, highlighting that Ritter is the first to be found guilty for a hate crime motivated by gender identity under the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.
Community and Justice Advocacy
U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs expressed hope for the community, stating that the verdict sends a message of hope for the rights of individuals targeted for their gender identity or sexual orientation.
FBI Columbia Field Office’s Special Agent in Charge Steve Jensen affirmed that justice had prevailed in this case, underscoring the importance of upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals.
Details of the Crime and Trial
Evidence presented at trial revealed that Ritter murdered Doe on August 4, 2019, in Allendale, South Carolina, upset over rumors about their sexual relationship.
The government successfully proved that the murder was committed due to Doe’s gender identity.
Ritter attempted to cover up the crime by burning his clothes, disposing of the murder weapon, and providing false information to law enforcement.
Potential Sentencing
With a maximum penalty of life in prison, Doe’s sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
A federal district court judge will determine the sentence based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Investigation and Prosecution Details
The FBI Columbia Field Office, along with other law enforcement agencies, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys and a Trial Attorney from the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.
This trial marks the first under the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act for violence against a transgender person.
The Shepard-Byrd Act, enacted in 2009, allows federal prosecution of hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Additional Resources and Legislation
The article concludes with additional information about the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, emphasizing its significance in addressing hate crimes motivated by sexual orientation or gender identity.
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