Two years after a horrific attack that killed Mollie Olgin and permanently changed Kristene Chapa's life, the community in south Texas is rallying together to call for justice. On Friday November 14, 2014, just as a hearing for their attacker gets underway, Kristene and Mollie's friends and supporters will hold a Rally Against Hate Crimes in Sinton, Texas.
In 2012, after being in a relationship for five months, Kristene Chapa and Mollie Olgin were attacked at Violet Andrews Park in Portland, Texas. The two were shot in the head, execution style. Mollie died at the scene but Kristene was rushed to the hospital with head injuries. She survived and is continuing to recover every day, through the support of family and friends. A fund has been set up to help the family with medical expenses.
The rally will be taking place while David Strickland, the 27-year old man accused in the double shooting, will be making his second pre-trial appearance. Strickland faces charges of capital murder, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated assault and aggravated kidnapping. His defense is supported by Taft Pharmacy and Villiage Pharmacy, the owners of whom are his parents who are adamant that their son is not guilty. At his first pre-trial hearing Strickland said he wanted the trail to begin to "get the truth out." From inside a police car, he held a sign up that said, "Wake up America, the media is lying to you."
The rally is to raise awareness for both Kristene and in memory of Mollie. Speakers include Cindy Candia, co-president of Harlingen PFLAG, Jennifer Clark, a spokesperson for the Triangle Bar in Corpus Christi, and Minister John Cabrera of Kingsborough Ridge Baptist Church.
TAKE ACTION:
If you are in Texas, join the rally to call for justice for Kristene and Mollie. Bring your signs and rainbow flags and support the victims.
Visit the Facebook event page for more details.
Donate to Kristene's medical expenses.