Trump Demands Death Penalty for Man Accused of Killing Ukrainian Refugee in North Carolina
President Donald Trump called for the death penalty on Wednesday morning for Decarlos Brown Jr., the man accused of murdering 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska in what officials are investigating as a likely hate crime.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote:
“The ANIMAL who so violently killed the beautiful young lady from Ukraine, who came to America searching for peace and safety, should be given a ‘Quick’ (there is no doubt!) Trial, and only awarded THE DEATH PENALTY. There can be no other option!!!”
Brown, a Black man with a lengthy criminal history, has been federally charged in connection with Zarutska’s killing. The Trump administration has indicated it will pursue either a life sentence or the death penalty, depending on the outcome of the federal case.
Zarutska, who had come to the United States seeking safety from the war in Ukraine, was attacked and killed while riding public transportation in Charlotte, North Carolina. The suspect reportedly had at least 14 prior arrests, including charges for felony larceny, robbery with a dangerous weapon, and making threats. Many of those charges were dropped or resulted in his release, often without bond.
According to The Gateway Pundit, Brown had most recently been released in January 2025 by Federal Magistrate Judge Teresa Stokes, who approved his release based on a personal promise to return for court proceedings.
President Trump also addressed the incident from the Oval Office on Tuesday, linking the crime to broader concerns about public safety and what he characterized as lenient criminal justice policies in Democrat-led cities.
“Americans have been forced to put up with Democrat-run cities that set loose savage, bloodthirsty criminals to prey on innocent people,” Trump said. “We have to respond with force and strength. We have to be vicious, just like they are. It’s the only thing they understand.”
Citing the suspect’s arrest record and repeated releases, Trump argued that the justice system is failing victims and communities across the country.
“A beautiful young girl with a magnificent future was slaughtered by a deranged monster who was roaming free after 14 prior arrests,” he said. “It’s time to stop this madness. We’re going to make America safe again — including our big cities.”
During his remarks, Trump again highlighted violent crime in major urban areas, asserting that 24 of the 25 most dangerous cities in the U.S. are governed by Democrats. He also claimed credit for reducing crime in Washington, D.C., during his term, promising similar results elsewhere under his leadership.
The case has drawn national attention, reigniting debates over bail reform, repeat offenders, and the broader criminal justice system.