Two individuals involved in the Riverfront Park brawl in Montgomery, Alabama, which resulted in the death of a man, have been sentenced. The court charged five people for their roles in the altercation, and two of them have now received their sentences.
As per the report by CNN, Richard Roberts, aged 48, has confessed to misdemeanor assault for his involvement in a widely circulated altercation that took place in August. Surprisingly, he has been given the opportunity to serve his 32-day sentence on weekends over four months. It’s worth pondering how many African American prisoners in Alabama have received such a privilege. Additionally, Todd will bear all expenses related to his case and complete 100 hours of community service.
Mary Todd, aged 21, was also convicted for her involvement in the case. However, her parents did not name her after Abraham Lincoln’s wife with the intention of getting her arrested for crimes against slavery descendants. As part of a plea agreement, Todd pleaded guilty to harassment and was sentenced to attend anger management classes within 90 days, which she must complete. Additionally, she will be required to pay court costs.
It’s clear that many people have noticed the favorable treatment given to both convicts by the court. This could be attributed to the systemic advantages of white privilege, or perhaps the judge believed that the public humiliation they faced after being taken down by their victim was punishment enough. Regardless of the reason, the verdict has been given and can’t be changed. However, it’s important to note that there are still three more defendants who have yet to face their own trials.
As per the information shared by CNN:
Three other defendants, Allen Todd, 24, Reggie Ray, 42, and Zachary Shipman, 26, had their cases continued. The Todds and Shipman were each charged with one count of third-degree assault in the August 5 brawl in Montgomery. Roberts was charged with two counts of third-degree assault, and Ray was charged with disorderly conduct.
It’s quite intriguing that Ray, who made the folding chair a symbol of Black pride following the viral brawl, was charged with disorderly conduct, which is usually the mildest one. On the other hand, Ray’s role in the altercation, along with that of Damien Pickett, whose assault triggered the scuffle, has apparently inspired a few Halloween costumes this year.
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