Victims' Families Demand Justice and Reform at Charlotte Judiciary Forum

Tue Sep 30 2025 09:08:07 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

U.S. House members convene in Charlotte to discuss violent crime and justice system reforms, prompted by the tragic death of a Ukrainian refugee on a commuter train.

The recent stabbing death of Iryna Zarutska has prompted U.S. House members to meet in Charlotte, where family members of violent-crime victims pressed for more stringent criminal justice reforms. During a judiciary subcommittee meeting, residents expressed the need for accountability and immediate prosecution of suspects. Amidst partisan debate over crime rates and judicial policies, the hearing aimed to address growing public concerns following increased violent crimes in the area.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — U.S. House members gathered in North Carolina's largest city on Monday to hear emotional testimonies from families of violent crime victims. The meeting, convened by a judiciary subcommittee, was sparked by public outrage following the stabbing of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska aboard a light rail train last month.

During the forum, numerous speakers criticized the current judicial system in North Carolina and South Carolina, arguing it has failed to protect the public by allowing dangerous defendants to remain free while awaiting trial. Many attendees shared their personal stories, calling for systemic reforms to ensure swifter and more accountable justice for heinous crimes.

Mia Alderman, a Charlotte resident and grandmother of a 2020 murder victim, expressed heartbreak for Zarutska's family, stating, The same system that failed Mary failed Iryna. Our hearts are broken for her family, and we grieve with them. We need accountability and reform to ensure those accused of heinous crimes are swiftly prosecuted.

Zarutska's suspected attacker, Decarlos Brown Jr., had previously faced over a dozen arrests yet was released earlier this year on a misdemeanor charge. Now charged with both first-degree murder and a federal count related to Zarutska’s death, he could face the death penalty.

Public reaction intensified after the release of security footage depicting the brutal attack, drawing criticism towards Democratic leadership in Charlotte from Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, who accused them of prioritizing criminals over victims. Democrats countered, arguing that increased funding and resources are essential to address crime effectively.

Testimonies during the meeting emphasized the urgent need for more prosecutors and adequate resources to handle the rising population and crime rates in Mecklenburg County. Crime experts noted a recent decline in violent crime and murder rates, further complicating the dialogue surrounding law enforcement funding and policies.

Amidst these discussions, the Republican-controlled North Carolina legislature has advanced a criminal justice package targeting cashless bail, pretrial release policies, and mental health evaluations, awaiting Governor Josh Stein’s approval. The ongoing debate underscores the critical intersection of policy, public safety, and community concerns, with both parties navigating their agenda against a backdrop of public grief and demand for systemic change.