Historic Verdict in Federal Hate Crime Trial for Killing of Transgender Woman

Daqua Lameek Ritter found guilty in landmark case, marking a significant moment for LGBTQI+ rights and hate crime prosecution.

Daqua Lameek Ritter was found guilty of a hate crime, a firearms charge, and obstruction in the 2019 killing of Dime Doe, a Black transgender woman, marking the first federal trial conviction for a hate crime based on gender identity.
The conviction is hailed as historic by officials, emphasizing the importance of justice for the LGBTQI+ community and specifically addressing violence against transgender women of color.
Ritter faces a maximum penalty of life in prison, with a sentencing hearing to be scheduled at a later date.
The case underscores the federal commitment to prosecuting hate crimes motivated by gender identity, utilizing the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.
The verdict sends a message that bias-motivated violence will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.