When the verdict was announced, the furious crowd felt a deep sense of satisfaction.
After hours of quiet waiting, the trial concluded. It was only when Beard and the others were led out under guard that the silent crowd finally stirred.
They surged toward Beard and the others, their hatred practically boiling over. The bone-deep loathing in their eyes sent a chill down the spine of even Beard, who, having already been sentenced to death, thought he had nothing left to fear.
As this was a major case that had captured the nation's attention, and because the sentences were meant to serve as a powerful deterrent, all the verdicts were severe. The lightest sentence handed down was two years.
Whether someone was a new trafficker or it was their first time participating, no leniency was shown.
Qin Shanshan was among those shown no mercy. She caused a huge scene in the courtroom and was quickly removed, but not before everyone in the gallery had heard her clearly.
