This sentencing adds to the complexity of the law by making it seem like you can protect yourself from those who want to harm you.
Chrystul Kizer from Milwaukee, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for killing a man she said was involved in sex trafficking her. The sentencing took place in Kenosha Monday.
Chrystul, who was only 17 when the incident occurred, pleaded guilty to reckless homicide in the death of Randall P. Volar in June 2018. She was also given an additional five years of state supervision. The judge, David Wilk, recognized the difficult circumstances surrounding Chrystul’s relationship with Volar but emphasized that seeking revenge is not acceptable.
During the hearing, Chrystul’s mother spoke about their challenging life when they moved to Milwaukee from Indiana. Chrystul, who recently got baptized in prison, referenced the Bible in a written statement, expressing remorse for the pain caused to the Volar family.
Chrystul’s defense attorney highlighted her troubled childhood and the impact of trafficking on Black women, arguing for a lenient sentence. The prosecutor and defense attorney presented their versions of the incident, with conflicting accounts of Volar’s involvement in trafficking.
The judge granted Chrystul credit for time served, reducing her prison term to nearly 10 years. The case received widespread attention, with over 1.5 million people signing a petition to support Chrystul and call for the charges to be dropped.
Despite efforts by advocates and supporters, Chrystul’s sentencing has sparked disappointment and concern about the lack of resources for trafficking survivors in the Wisconsin prison system. The defense attorney revealed that Chrystul was first trafficked at 16 and met Volar through an online platform for prostitution.
Volar, who was already under investigation for sexual misconduct with underage girls, was killed by Chrystul when she was 17. The legal proceedings involved a 2022 decision allowing Chrystul to pursue immunity through a sex trafficking defense. However, she opted to plead guilty to a lesser charge of 2nd-degree reckless homicide.
While the judge acknowledged the law providing defense for trafficking victims, he stated that Chrystul had abandoned that claim by pleading guilty. Chrystul’s case highlights the complexities of seeking justice for trafficking survivors within the legal system.
