Ariel Castro May Face Death Penalty For Murder
Ariel Castro may face the death penalty for capital murder. Cleveland, Ohio, prosecutors are exploring the possibility, as Castro allegedly caused one of the women he held captive to suffer multiple miscarriages.
Cuyahoga County Prosecutor, Timothy McGinty, has stated that Castro repeatedly raped the women he held hostage. At least one of the women became pregnant and suffered a miscarriage as a result of Castro’s abuse.
As reported by the Washington Post, in addition to the possible capital murder charge, Castro is being charged with the kidnapping and rape of Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus and Michelle Knight. If convicted of capital murder, Ariel Castro may face the death penalty.
All three women were reportedly abducted by Castro in separate incidents. The women were forcibly restrained and held in Castro’s home until they managed to escape early this week.
Prosecutor McGinty contends that “the horrific brutality and torture that the victims endured for a decade is beyond comprehension.” The circumstances of the case, including the reports of forced miscarriage, led the Ohio prosecutor to seek the harshest penalty available.
As reported by CBS News, Ariel Castro is currently being held on $8 million bond. He has spent at least some of the time on suicide watch.
Michelle Knight is reportedly still recovering in the hospital after her escape. Her grandmother, Deborah Knight, has stated that she was “severely beaten,” and will undergo facial reconstruction surgery to repair the damage. She also states that Michelle has suffered permanent hearing loss in one ear.
Amanda Berry and her child have returned to her family’s home. As reported by CNN, Amanda and her 6-year-old daughter are doing well. Amanda’s daughter was reportedly fathered by Castro, and born as she was held captive.
As reported by NY Daily News, Gina DeJesus has returned home to her family. She has said little about her ordeal, but her family relates that “she was happy” to be home.
Ariel Castro’s defense attorney has stated that he may be moved to a facility better suited to monitor for suicide, and protect him from threats of violence. All he can do is wait as prosecutor McGinty decides whether to pursue a capital murder charge, which is punishable by death.
