Loudoun County Circuit Court Chief Judge Douglas Fleming Jr. sentenced Furqan Syed to life plus 38 years for the killing of Najat Chemlali Goode on December 30, 2021. “It is unfortunate for all involved because there is so much loss, but it is rewarding to be able to have clarity and accountability for such a tragic act,” said Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney, Buta Biberaj.
Three months prior to the sentencing hearing, on April 13, 2023, a jury, after hearing from more than 50 witnesses over a two-week period, deliberated for 90 minutes, and returned a verdict of guilty for first-degree murder, armed burglary, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. “Our condolences are extended to the family and friends of Najat. We wish them grace and peace as they work towards healing. We thank the family, the amazing work by our law enforcement partners, which includes the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office and its detectives, the evidence analysts, the FBI, and others who cooperated and collaborated in the prosecution. We also thank the more than 100 witnesses who provided evidence and testimony over the last year to ensure that we delivered to the family and the community safety and justice,” said Biberaj.
“Thank you to the entire Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s team. The prosecution was led by Deputy Michele Burton and Chief Deputy Shaniqua Clark Nelson, our team of assistant Commonwealth’s Attorneys, paralegals, legal services assistants and our Victim-Witness case managers. This result could not have been achieved without each one of them,” said Biberaj.
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