Stephen Federico, whose daughter Logan, 22, was murdered, shared with a news outlet that he hasn’t heard from any Democratic officials since her death.
Logan was fatally shot on May 3 in Columbia, South Carolina, where she was suspected of breaking into a home while visiting a friend. The district is represented by South Carolina Democrat James Clyburn.
When asked if he heard from Clyburn or other Democrats regarding his daughter’s murder, Federico replied that they hadn’t reached out.
He humorously noted, “I called my daughter the wrong name yesterday,” in reference to North Carolina Democrat Deborah Ross.
Federico remarked that some lawmakers have consistently advocated for victims’ rights, while others seem to advocate for criminal leniency. He expressed that the situation had become politicized, saying, “It was never my intention—it wasn’t meant to be about race or politics, but it turned political.”
He also felt that individuals like 30-year-old Alexander Dicky, the man charged with Logan’s murder, obstruct rehabilitation opportunities for others.
“There was once a 3-Strike Rule. When did it change to Alexander Dicky’s 40-Strike Rule? It seems people like him can obliterate those who could receive help. Those who commit violent crimes shouldn’t get a second chance,” he stated.
Dicky faced two first-degree robbery charges in 2014 and another charge was filed later that October. He eventually pleaded guilty to a second, non-violent robbery charge, receiving a ten-year suspended sentence on probation.
The following year, Dicky was charged with two more robbery counts, one of which was dropped, and he pleaded guilty once again. In 2023, he pleaded guilty to a third-degree robbery after initially facing a count of violent robbery. An attorney for the 11th Circuit claimed ignorance of Dicky’s prior robbery charges.
During the call, Logan’s father questioned if lawmakers were genuinely addressing issues within the criminal justice system. He pointed out that both legislative and judicial policies contribute to the risk criminals pose to citizens.
“Logan’s death shouldn’t have had to happen for this discussion to take place. There have been short sentences and cashless bail laws—it’s all been detrimental to our society,” he said.
He cited statistics showing that of the 67,966 state prisoners released in 2005, 68% were arrested again within three years, 79% within six years, and 83% within nine years.
Federico emphasized that while prisons should aim for rehabilitation, Dicky didn’t spend enough time incarcerated to determine if rehabilitation was successful. “I think the cards are stacked against career criminals who have been through the system,” he remarked.
Federico, while not wanting to assign blame, expressed concern over the prevalence of videos depicting tragic moments, citing the case of 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Irina Zartoska as an example. He mentioned how impactful such videos can be, saying, “When I saw what happened, I think it resonated with many.”
Describing Logan, he noted, “She was kind, unique, fiercely loving, and loyal.” He shared that she dedicated her life to helping those in need.
The alleged murderer, DeCarlos Brown, reportedly killed Zartoska on a light rail in Charlotte, North Carolina, on August 22nd.
Attempts to reach Clyburn for comments resulted in no response so far.
