Jeffries Critiques Trump Over Ukrainian Refugee’s Murder

House minority leader Hakeem Jeffries condemned the murder of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska in Charlotte, North Carolina, and used the incident to criticize President Donald Trump’s actions related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots.

Jeffries labeled it “outrageous” for Trump to exploit Zarutska’s tragic death for political gain, especially given that the victim was killed by DeCarlos Brown, a man with 14 prior convictions. “I think it’s outrageous that people are trying to politicize the death of this amazing young woman,” Jeffries stated. He expressed frustration over the failure to seek rational solutions to such matters, questioning the common sense of those involved. “It’s just outrageous,” he added, highlighting that Trump had earlier pardoned numerous violent felons who had attacked police officers.

DeCarlos Brown’s criminal history includes serious offenses like armed robbery and burglary, dating back to 2014. However, shortly after his release, he was again charged with assaulting his sister.

In January, North Carolina Magistrate Judge Teresa Stokes had released Brown without bail, allowing him to pledge in writing to appear in court. Following this, his behavior deteriorated, prompting him to drive his mother out of her home due to her concerns about his violent tendencies and mental health.

Federal prosecutors have accused Brown of committing a fatal act in a mass transit system, which could lead to severe penalties, including life in prison or the death penalty.