After following the Connor Schierman trial since it started, I can’t help but wonder what his motive could possibly have been. I do find it odd though that the prosecution never really pursued the idea that it was ethnically motivated. There was apparently a disparaging remark made before the murders about that “Russian family.” Could it be that Mr. Schierman did not like Russians living in his neighborhood, his country? As sad as it is, prejudice and racism still exists today in the 21st century, whether we realize it or not. Whatever the reason, and only Connor Schierman really knows, this crime called for the death penalty. My condolences go out to both the Milkin and Botvina families and I hope that they can can move forward in their lives after this tragedy.

Paul Zasadny, Kirkland