And this time, the justice system prevails... You're 1 for 2.

Many of you might know about the armed robbery of our store in 2006.  I got pretty injured and to spare you all from turning this into a sob story, let's just say it was a long four years that culminated in me finally testifying in court in front of a full jury this year.  I forgave the defendant in the microphone for what he did while he squirmed and averted my gaze.  Today the US Department of Justice sent me a certified letter.

Re: United States v. Eric Michael Brown

Case Number 2009R*** and Court Docket Number: 09-CR-003-***

Dear Elizabeth Park:

The United States department of Justice believes it is important to keep victims of federal crime informed of court proceedings.  This notice provides information about the above-referenced criminal case.

Defendant Eric Michael B**** has been sentenced by the Court.  The Court ordered the defendant to the following:  

Incarceration of 12 year(s) 1 month(s)

Followed by Supervised Release of 5 year(s).

I didn't even read the rest of the letter because i was inundated with this feeling of... peace?  happiness?  resolve.  I really believe in God - as messed up as i may be sometimes.  I don't know what i did to deserve such mercy and grace. 

PS.  the cool thing i got out of this whole ordeal is that i have a few buddies in the FBI now.  AND i have a direct line with the Deputy Chief of National Security and Violent Crime.  isn't that freaking COOL!?  they're like my celebrity pals!

The robbed that smiles, steals something from the thief.  

-William Shakespeare