(NewsNation) — North Carolina Republicans on Wednesday pointed to the killing of a Ukrainian refugee in Charlotte to underscore the need for President Donald Trump’s tough-on-crime agenda.
“Let’s be very clear, crime is a choice, and Democrats have chosen to side with criminals,” Jason Simmons, chair of the North Carolina Republican Party, said at a news conference.
The Aug. 22 stabbing death of Iryna Zarutska has Trump and Republicans across the country pointing to what they call “failed democratic policies,” including so-called “catch-and-release” practices and cashless bail, which they argue allowed suspect DeCarlos Brown Jr., who has 14 prior arrests, to remain free.
“What the Democrats call restorative justice looks like Iryna Zarutska’s murder,” said Mecklenburg County Republican Party chair Kyle Kirby. “Iryna Zarutska died because of the Democrat policies in Charlotte-Mecklenburg, woke politicians that perpetuate cashless bail and refuse to prioritize public safety over appearances.”
Kirby urged immediate policy changes, adding, “The time is now to treat criminals like accountable individuals and not entitled persons.” He also announced a candlelight vigil for Zarutska on Sept. 22, the 30-day anniversary of her death, at the train station she last boarded in Charlotte.
James Bowers, a local city council candidate, said Wednesday his campaign would donate $1,000 to Zarutska’s memorial fund.
Trump said the incident highlights the need for a national crackdown on crime.
“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!!!” Trump wrote Wednesday on social media.
At least one Republican lawmaker from the state has warned against measures such as deploying troops. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., told NOTUS, “It’ll be a problem” if such steps are taken.
Dems: Trump doesn’t care about law and order despite Iryna Zarutska statements
Democrats have defended what Trump calls “woke, soft on crime policies.”
Rep. Pete Aguilar, D-Calif., said, “It’s hard to believe House Republicans and Donald Trump on this issue when the first thing he did was pardon 1,500 violent offenders on day one of his administration. More than a handful have already reoffended and committed crimes back home. So, it’s hard for us to believe that he actually cares about this issue.”
Dems, GOP ratchet up crime rhetoric after Iryna Zarutska stabbing
The incident has fueled an escalation of words between the two parties, signaling crime will likely be a key issue in the 2026 midterm elections.
In Charlotte, Democratic Mayor Vi Lyles won her primary election Tuesday night despite criticism over a statement about the suspect, in which she said, “We will never arrest our way out of homelessness or mental health.”
Brown now faces federal charges, and prosecutors say he could face the death penalty or life in prison.