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Mecklenburg County DA says finding justice in homicide cases is top priority in 2020

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Linda Springs is learning that justice doesn't come quickly or without some pain.

It's already been 10 months since her daughter Kendal Crank was shot and killed when she drove into the middle of a shootout on North Tryon Street.

“It’s just like reliving a memory, reliving everything over again from March 28,” Springs said.

Police have charged three young men with her murder, but after a year that saw 107 homicides, families of those victims may have to wait two years or more for their day in court.

“Can I prepare myself for two years ahead? I don't know that. I wish I could,” Springs said.

District Attorney Spencer Merriweather made it clear Wednesday that finding justice in homicide cases is a top priority in 2020.

“First, it's important for you to know that we will be devoting more resources to the trials of homicides in Mecklenburg County,” Merriweather said.

>> In the video at the top of this page, hear from Merriweather about how prosecutors hope to help families waiting for justice.