“You have used your wealth and influence to destroy lives,” the judge said. “But that ends today.”

Judge Henderson picked up a document and signed it with a heavy stroke of her pen.

“On the charges of conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, financial fraud, and custodial interference, I sentence you, Patricia Parker, to the maximum term of fifteen years in the state penitentiary.”

A sharp gasp escaped Courtney’s lips.

Patricia did not move, but her skin turned a sickly gray color.

“There will be no parole eligibility for the first ten years of that sentence,” the judge added.

She then looked at Courtney.

“Courtney Parker, you assisted your mother in this abuse, acting as her eyes and ears, and directly participating in the physical and emotional isolation of Hannah Parker.”

Courtney began to sob openly, leaning against her attorney.

“For your role in the conspiracy and assault, you are sentenced to seven years in the state penitentiary,” Judge Henderson said.

“No, please,” Courtney wept, her voice echoing in the high-ceilinged room. “It was all my mother. She made me do it.”

Patricia did not look at her daughter.