In Columbia, South Carolina, Daqua Lameek Ritter was found guilty of killing Black transgender woman Dime Doe in a federal trial focused on hate crimes based on gender identity. Ritter was convicted of shooting Doe three times in August 2019, using a firearm, and obstructing justice. The trial highlighted their secret sexual relationship and Ritter’s growing agitation over its exposure in their small town. The Department of Justice presented text messages showing Ritter trying to dispel gossip about their affair and allegedly keeping tabs on the investigation. Witnesses testified to Ritter’s suspicious behavior before and after Doe’s death, including Ritter appearing dirty and pacing at a cousin’s house after the killing. The prosecution argued that Ritter tried to keep his connection with Doe hidden, deleting texts and giving coy responses to questions. Despite defense claims that the messages presented were a limited snapshot of their exchanges, the jury found Ritter guilty of the charges. This trial is significant as it is the first federal case of a hate crime based on gender identity to reach trial, indicating a commitment to fighting violence targeted at individuals based on their gender identity or other protected characteristics.
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