Video - Words That Kill: The Michelle Carter Case

In July 2014, tragedy struck when 18-year-old Conrad Roy III was found dead in his truck, a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning. Initially perceived as a heartbreaking suicide, the case took a sinister twist upon the discovery of text messages from his then-girlfriend, 17-year-old Michelle Carter. These messages revealed her persistent encouragement for Conrad to end his life. Even when he hesitated and stepped out of the truck, Michelle urged him to return, which he ultimately did. This led to a groundbreaking legal battle, culminating in Michelle's conviction for involuntary manslaughter, a case built solely on the power of her words. The verdict sparked widespread debate about the extent of accountability that words can carry in such tragic circumstances. Michelle Carter served 11 months in prison and was released in 2020, but the case continues to provoke discussions on the moral and legal responsibilities in the digital age.