On Tuesday, a jury convicted former police officer Amber Guyger of murder in the shooting death of Botham Jean, a case that captured the nation’s attention. On Wednesday, she was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the murder, but not without a startling act of compassion.
When the jury returned a sentence of just 10 years for the murder of a 26-year-old man, shot down while minding his own business in his own home, his family broke down.
As ABC News reported, family members hoping for a much harsher sentence for Guyger, who faced as much as life in prison for the killing, shook their heads in disbelief and started crying when the jury announced their decision.
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However, the family wasn’t entirely united.
At the sentencing trial, Botham Jean’s family had an opportunity to provide victim impact statements.
On the stand, Botham’s 18-year-old brother, Brandt Jean, stole the show. Speaking to Guyger slowly and deliberately, his voice breaking, Brandt said “I don’t want to say twice or for the hundredth time, what you’ve, or how much you’ve taken from us. I think you know that. But I just—
“If you are truly sorry — I know I can speak for myself — I, I forgive you. And I know if you go to God and ask Him, He will forgive you.”
“I love you just like anyone else,” he continued.
“I’m not going to say I hope you rot and die, just like my brother did…I personally want the best for you.
“I wasn’t going to say this in front of my family, I don’t even want you to go to jail. I want the best for you because I know that’s exactly what Botham would want for you. Give your life to Christ. I think giving your life to Christ is the best thing Botham would want for you.”
Then, in a startling moment, Brandt asked Judge Kemp if he could hug Guyger, a request the judge granted.
Guyger sobbed as the two embraced for a minute in front of the judge’s bench, and sobs could be heard from throughout the courtroom, CNN reported. Even the judge cried, and before Guyger was led from the courtroom, Judge Kemp followed Brandt’s example and hugged her, handing her a Bible as well.
While many observers slammed Judge Kemp’s hug as inappropriate, others lauded Brandt’s show of compassion.
Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot called Brandt’s hug “an amazing act of healing and forgiveness that is rare in today’s society, especially for many of our leaders.” He added that in 37 years of practicing law, “I never saw anything like that.”
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson issued a statement as well, saying that he would “never, ever forget the incredible examples of love, faith and strength personified by Botham, Brandt and the entire Jean family.”
