Florida school shooter Nikolas Cruz will be sentenced to life in prison
The parents of 14-year-old Alyssa Alhadeff, who was among 17 people killed in the Parkland massacre, said they were « disgusted » by the jury’s decision to recommend life in prison over the death penalty for the shooter.
Lori and Ilan Alhadeff spoke to reporters shortly after the recommendation was read in court.
Ilan said his family were « beyond disappointed with the outcome », adding that « it should have been the death penalty – 100% ».
“I am disgusted with our justice system,” the visibly angry father said in court. « I’m disgusted by these jurors. »
Both parents questioned the purpose of the death penalty in the Florida legal system if not for the case of a mass shooting at a school.
“What is the death penalty for? Lori asked.
She also called on law enforcement to do more to prevent school shootings and to act more aggressively to stop them.
« Law enforcement has to do their job, » the mother said. « Your job as a police officer is to come in, engage and eliminate the threat. And if you can’t do that, don’t do the job. »
The Alhadeffs said they would continue to work through their nonprofit, Make Schools Safe, to advocate for stronger school safety policies.
Ilan thanked the state for prosecuting the Parkland shooter, while condemning the outcome of the trial.
“The system continues to fail us,” he said.
About Alyssa Alhadeff: Alyssa, 14, was a student at Stoneman Douglas and a soccer player for Parkland Travel Soccer.
« Alyssa Alhadeff was a loved and respected member of our club and community, » Parkland Travel Soccer said on Facebook. « Alyssa will be greatly missed. »
Lori told HLN that she dropped her daughter off at school the day of the shooting and said, « I love you. » When the mother heard about the attack, she rushed to school, but it was too late.
« I knew then that she was gone. I felt it in my heart, » she said.
You can read about all the victims here.
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