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It is about justice and protecting the community.
And yes, it is about giving you a wake-up call that might just save your life.
You have the right to appeal this sentence to the Rhode Island Superior Court within 30 days.
Attorney Morrison will explain that process, but I want you to know that I have been very careful in crafting this sentence to be within the bounds of the law, and I am confident it will withstand any appeal.
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I also want to say something to Officer Daniel Martinez.
Officer, thank you for your 18 years of service.
Thank you for your professionalism in handling a difficult situation on August 15th.
Thank you for not letting Madison’s behavior provoke you.
You are exactly the kind of police officer we need in this community and the Providence Municipal Court appreciates you.
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To everyone else in this courtroom and watching from afar, I hope this serves as a reminder.
The law applies to everyone.
Justice is blind to wealth, status, and family connections.
In this courtroom at 25 Doran Street, we treat everyone with respect, but we hold everyone accountable.
If you are a young person, learn from this.
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Understand that your choices have consequences.
If you are a parent, use this as a teaching moment.
And if you are someone with advantages in life, remember that those advantages come with responsibilities.
They are not a license to treat others poorly.
They should make you more aware of your obligations to society.
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This court is adjourned.
The defendant, Madison Elizabeth Thornton, will be remanded into custody immediately to begin serving her sentence.
