Part 10: The Verdict of Restitution
After twelve days of continuous testimony, the jury returned after less than two hours of deliberation—a record for a complex financial case in the state of Texas.
The packed courtroom dropped into a suffocating silence as the foreperson stood straight to read the validated verdicts.
On the count of conspiracy to commit extortion: GUILTY.
On the count of aggravated domestic assault: GUILTY.
On the count of structured interstate wire fraud: GUILTY.
The federal judge adjusted his glasses, looking down at the three defendants trembling before the bench with an expression devoid of any mercy.
"This court sentences Carmen Robles to twenty years without parole at the Fort Worth Federal Correctional Institution."
"Javier Robles is sentenced to twelve years for criminal complicity and concealment of a violent felony."
"Regarding financial restitution," the judge hammered his gavel with finality.
"The court orders the total seizure of all personal real estate belonging to the defendants, including the Highland Park mansion, to be transferred directly to Sofia Bennett as a recovery fund totaling $6.4 million."
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Carmen collapsed onto the defense table like an empty sack, while Javier buried his face in his hands, his belated tears soaking through his fingers.
Justice hadn't just reclaimed what was stolen; it completely liquidated the entire foundation of their luxury lifestyle.
