CHARLESTON, S.C. — Angel Vause, 57, of Georgetown, was sentenced to 18 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to lying to federal investigators about her role in the 2009 kidnapping and murder of Brittanee Drexel. This case has captured public attention due to its tragic nature and the long-awaited justice for Brittanee’s family, who have endured years of heartache and uncertainty.
Understanding the Role of Angel Vause in the Brittanee Drexel Case
According to evidence presented in court, Angel Vause concealed the truth of what happened to Brittanee and her involvement for more than 13 years. The details of this case are particularly disturbing.
Angel Vause initially told investigators that Brittanee willingly joined her and Raymond Moody. She claimed that she left Moody and Brittanee at the Pole Yard Boat Landing near Georgetown, and that she did not take Brittanee’s cell phone with her. In reality, she played an active role in Brittanee’s abduction and was complicit in the horrific acts that followed.
On the night of Brittanee’s disappearance in April 2009, Angel Vause assisted Moody in luring the 17-year-old into their vehicle under the false pretense of offering her a ride to her hotel. Tragically, Vause left Brittanee alone with Moody at the site of her rape and murder, taking Brittanee’s cellphone, her only chance of survival, with her.
The judge noted during the sentencing hearing that Vause was a “key participant in this tragedy, facilitating the kidnapping of a child.” This case highlights the severe consequences of such heinous acts and the impact on families and communities.
The aftermath of Brittanee’s case continues to affect not only her family but also the wider community. Many local residents have spoken out about the need for stronger protective measures for young individuals, particularly during high-traffic tourist seasons.
This incident has prompted discussions about safety protocols and the importance of awareness among both locals and visitors. Educational campaigns have emerged, aiming to inform the public about recognizing potentially dangerous situations and how to seek help.
Furthermore, the emotional scars left by such tragedies often lead to community healing initiatives, where support groups and memorials are created to honor victims and provide solace to grieving families.
“For more than a decade, Brittanee’s loved ones were left to imagine the worst possible scenario in Brittanee’s disappearance while Angel Vause withheld the truth,” said U.S. Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs for the District of South Carolina.
This statement underscores the emotional toll that such cases take on families, as they are left to grapple with uncertainty and despair.
“We hope Brittanee’s loved ones can now have both the closure and a measure of justice that comes with this sentence. May she rest in peace knowing that her mother Dawn was relentless in her pursuit of justice.”
The enduring fight for justice by Brittanee’s family serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of love and determination in the face of tragedy.
“The FBI is committed to following the evidence to uncover the truth,” said Steve Jensen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Columbia field office.
“This sentence underscores the gravity of lying during an investigation. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will always investigate the facts and hold accountable anyone who distorts the truth to obstruct justice.”
The statement highlights the critical importance of integrity in investigations and the lengths to which law enforcement will go to ensure that justice is served. It also reflects the broader implications of such cases in terms of public trust in the justice system.
As we reflect on Brittanee’s case, it’s vital to recognize the societal implications of such crimes.
Public discussions surrounding crime rates, safety measures, and the justice system have intensified in the wake of this case. Community forums are held to address concerns and share information on safety practices that can protect individuals, particularly women, from similar fates.
Community leaders urge residents to stay informed and vigilant, fostering a culture of safety and awareness that extends beyond the immediate aftermath of the crime.
United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel sentenced Vause to 216 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision.
There is no parole in the federal system, reflecting the serious nature of her crimes. This sentencing serves not only to punish Angel Vause but also to send a strong message to others about the repercussions of such actions.
The legal outcomes in cases like this one offer a sense of justice and accountability, albeit bittersweet for the families affected.
Brittanee’s story is not just one of tragedy; it serves as a stark reminder of the issues surrounding the safety of young women and the importance of vigilance in today’s society.
Many advocates have since rallied for changes in legislation aimed at protecting vulnerable individuals. This includes advocating for enhanced support systems for victims and their families, as well as stricter penalties for those convicted of similar crimes.
The ripple effects of such incidents often catalyze movement within communities to push for legislative reforms that prevent future tragedies.
The Angel Vause case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, the Myrtle Beach Police Department, and the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Winston Holliday and Elle E. Klein are prosecuting the case. The collaborative efforts of multiple agencies in pursuing justice for Brittanee Drexel illustrate the importance of teamwork in law enforcement, especially in complex cases that involve severe crimes against individuals.
The dedication of these agencies ensures that such incidents are thoroughly investigated and that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
Local News Via - MyrtleBeachSC.com
