In four days, a Wisconsin judge will determine the fate of Chrystul Kizer, a former sex trafficking victim who killed her abuser at the age of 17. This case has drawn significant attention, challenging the legal system's approach to victims of sexual exploitation who commit crimes.
Kizer, now 24, faces up to 30 years in prison for the death of Randall Volar III, a 34-year-old man who sexually abused her. The case has been ongoing for six years, highlighting the complexities surrounding sex trafficking and the criminal justice system's response to victims who retaliate against their abusers.
Sex trafficking is a global crime that often targets vulnerable youth. In the United States, the average age of entry into sex trafficking is between 12-14 years old. The Trafficking Victims Protection Act, passed in 2000, aims to combat this issue, but cases like Kizer's reveal ongoing challenges in its implementation.
Kizer's case gained prominence during the #MeToo movement, which began in 2006 but gained global attention in 2017. The movement has shed light on sexual abuse and exploitation, prompting discussions about accountability and justice for survivors.
Wisconsin's Supreme Court made a groundbreaking decision in 2022, allowing Kizer to present evidence of her exploitation as part of her defense. This ruling aligns with Wisconsin's 2017 law permitting sex trafficking victims to seek expungement of criminal records related to their exploitation.
The prosecution has argued that Kizer premeditated the murder to steal Volar's car. However, Kizer maintains she acted in self-defense. The case has raised questions about the extent of legal protections for trafficking victims who commit violent crimes.
"I get to try to move on. I can show the court that I'm not the same person that I was when I was 17."
Kizer's decision to accept a plea deal rather than face a potential life sentence at trial reflects the high stakes involved. The upcoming sentencing will determine whether she receives further prison time or is directed to a counseling program.
The case has also highlighted concerns about law enforcement's handling of sex trafficking cases. Records show that Volar was briefly arrested for child enticement and sexual assault in February 2018 but was released the same day. He remained free for months despite evidence of his crimes against multiple underage girls.
As the sentencing approaches, Kizer has expressed a desire to apologize to Volar's family and move forward with her life. During her time out of jail, she worked at Red Lobster, took classes, and attended counseling sessions, demonstrating her efforts to build a new life.
The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how the legal system treats sex trafficking victims who commit crimes against their abusers. It challenges the boundaries of "affirmative defense" laws and raises questions about the appropriate balance between punishment and rehabilitation in such complex situations.
As the judge prepares to make his decision, advocates for trafficking survivors and legal experts are closely watching. The ruling will not only determine Kizer's future but may also influence how similar cases are handled in the future, potentially shaping the intersection of criminal justice and victim protection in sex trafficking cases.