The family of Isaac Schuman, the 17-year-old victim of a fatal stabbing on Wisconsin’s Apple River, has expressed outrage and disappointment over the 20-year prison sentence handed down to the perpetrator, Nicolae Miu.
In an interview on “Banfield,” Alina Hernandez, Schuman’s mother, described the sentence as “nauseating” and “unjust.” She said that the family was shocked by the leniency of the sentence, which seemed to prioritize the defendant’s well-being over the victim’s life. “It was almost like there was no justice for any of the other victims,” Hernandez said.
Donny Hernandez, Schuman’s stepfather, echoed his wife’s sentiments, saying that the sentencing was a “big surprise.” He felt that the judge, Michael Waterman, focused too much on Miu’s positive qualities and not enough on the impact of his actions on the victims. “It felt like he was a sponsor, talking about all the wonderful things he’d done,” Hernandez said.
The Hernandez family has been working to honor Schuman’s memory through the Isaac Schuman Foundation, which provides scholarships to young people who embody his values and aspirations. The foundation aims to keep Schuman’s legacy alive and to support others who share his passions and interests.
Before the sentencing, Miu read a statement apologizing for his actions and expressing remorse for the pain he had caused. He acknowledged the tragedy of Schuman’s death and the impact it had on his family and friends. “My soul is broken, my heart is very heavy, and I will never be the same carrying such a heavy burden inside,” Miu said. However, his words of apology did little to comfort the Hernandez family, who feel that justice has not been served.
