A jury has found Jermaine Brisco guilty of Second Degree Murder, First Degree Feticide, and Attempted Obstruction of Justice in the 2016 killing of 22-year-old Raven Veal and her unborn child. The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office announced the verdict on November 12, 2024, marking the end of a long, challenging journey for Veal’s family and the city. District Attorney Jason Williams, together with NOPD Sergeant Robert Barrere and a team of homicide prosecutors, emphasized the significance of the outcome, highlighting their dedication to upholding justice for victims of domestic violence.
Horrific details defined the case. On November 9, 2016, Brisco fatally shot Veal in front of her three-year-old daughter, pulling the child from the car and abandoning her on the roadside before driving over Veal’s body. Veal, who was expecting her second child, was left on the roadway, a scene tragically witnessed by her young daughter. “Her loved ones and surviving child will never quite escape this nightmare, but we hope this verdict gives them some small bit of closure,” said DA Williams.
Assistant DA Adele Krieger, reflecting on the trial, said, “Domestic violence is a plague on our community. While nothing can bring Raven back, this verdict provides peace to the Veal family after eight long years of perseverance and faith in the justice system.”
The trial followed two previous attempts to hold Brisco accountable, the first ending in a hung jury and the second in a mistrial due to juror misconduct. This third trial’s outcome was the result of rigorous evidence-gathering and the unyielding dedication of NOPD officers and the District Attorney’s prosecution team, whose efforts DA Williams praised: “My deepest thanks to Assistant District Attorneys Krieger and Jeanfreau for their steadfast dedication to justice. Your work has been instrumental in bringing accountability to this case.”
As the case moves into the sentencing phase, the Orleans Parish DA’s Office reiterated its commitment to combating domestic violence and ensuring safety for all residents. “The people of Orleans Parish deserve a community where they can live in safety and peace,” stated DA Williams, urging the public to seek assistance if they or anyone they know is facing a potentially life-threatening situation.
This conviction is a significant step toward justice for Veal’s family, serving as a solemn reminder of the impact of domestic violence and the importance of community vigilance and support.