Civil Settlement Grants Control Over Nikolas Cruz’s Name
In a rare legal development, Anthony Borges, a survivor of the 2018 Parkland school shooting, now owns the rights to the name and likeness of the gunman, Nikolas Cruz. This unique civil settlement prevents Cruz from profiting from his crimes through movies, books, television appearances, or any other media. Moreover, Cruz is barred from giving interviews without Borges’ explicit written consent. The agreement also requires Cruz to donate his brain and body to scientific study upon death, ensuring that researchers may examine factors that could prevent future tragedies.
The settlement provides Borges with full control over any narrative or financial gain related to Cruz. His attorney, Alex Arreaza, emphasized that the purpose of the agreement was to guarantee accountability. By transferring these rights, the survivors ensure that Cruz cannot control the public perception of his actions or capitalize on the tragedy that affected so many lives.
The Heroism of Anthony Borges
During the February 14, 2018, shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Borges displayed remarkable courage. At only 15 years old, he shielded classmates by using his body to barricade a door against the gunman. In the process, he was shot five times, sustaining critical injuries that included the removal of a third of his lung. Borges endured weeks of hospitalization and multiple surgeries, but his quick thinking and bravery are credited with saving many lives.
Borges’ heroism became a defining moment in the tragedy. He was among the gravely injured survivors, yet his actions highlighted the resilience and bravery of the students on that day. His recovery has been long and challenging, but he has consistently worked to advocate for victims’ rights and ensure accountability for Cruz.
Legal Background and Settlement Details
The civil settlement that awarded Borges rights over Cruz’s name was reached just weeks before a scheduled trial. This agreement mirrors the principles of the “Son of Sam” laws, which prevent criminals from profiting off the publicity of their crimes. However, unlike the original law, this settlement grants the survivor direct control rather than relying on state seizure of assets.
Additionally, the settlement addresses financial aspects. Cruz assigned any interest in insurance policies he was entitled to, with proceeds now under Borges’ control. The arrangement ensures that any potential financial gain from Cruz will support medical expenses, charitable contributions, or scientific research.
Key Points of the Settlement:
- Cruz is prohibited from giving media interviews without Borges’ consent.
- Any financial gain tied to Cruz’s name or likeness is controlled by Borges and other survivors’ families.
- Cruz’s body, including his brain, must be donated to scientific research after his death.
- The agreement ensures accountability and prevents Cruz from capitalizing on the tragedy.
Moving Forward for Survivors
Six years after the shooting, Borges is now 21 and continues to rebuild his life. While the physical wounds have healed, he remains candid about the ongoing struggle with PTSD. The settlement provides a sense of closure and control, giving survivors the ability to dictate how the events and the shooter’s narrative are presented.
By owning the rights to Cruz’s name, Borges and the other involved families have taken a historic step in ensuring that the story of the Parkland tragedy is told by those who experienced it firsthand, not by the perpetrator. This case may serve as a precedent for how survivors can reclaim power in the wake of violent crimes, demonstrating that courage in action extends beyond heroism to legal empowerment.
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