Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner, supported by George Soros, is facing criticism after a repeat offender, linked to the disappearance of 23-year-old Miss USA candidate Kadda Scott, was found dead over the weekend. This suspect had been released on low bail after Krasner’s office dropped earlier kidnapping and assault charges.
During a press conference on Friday, Krasner attributed the suspect’s release to “systemic problems” rather than accepting full responsibility. This statement drew immediate backlash from victim advocates and courthouse officials, who accused prosecutors of neglecting their duties.
Prosecutors have added new charges against 21-year-old Keon King, further complicating an already troubling case in Philadelphia. King is already facing accusations including kidnapping, stalking, and false imprisonment. The new charges consist of arson, conspiracy, tampering with evidence, and causing a catastrophe, after Scott’s body was discovered in a shallow grave behind an abandoned school.
Authorities mentioned that King allegedly used a burnt vehicle to transport Scott’s body, with both digital evidence and vehicle data connecting him to multiple crime scenes. “This is still an active investigation,” said Assistant District Attorney Ashley Tocilowski, highlighting the significant digital footprint that places King at crucial locations related to Scott’s disappearance and subsequent death.
The incident has reignited scrutiny regarding Krasner’s progressive policies and how he handles violent offenders. Earlier this year, his office had dismissed the kidnapping and assault case against King when the victim didn’t show up in court. This decision allowed King to be released on a $200,000 bail, despite prosecutors pushing for a higher amount of nearly $1 million given the serious nature of the charges.
At Friday’s conference, Krasner acknowledged, “I could have handled it better,” while also pointing to the systemic issues within the city’s bail process. He emphasized that the decision to dismiss the case was due to the absence of the victim and witnesses, suggesting that this fear of being out on bail influenced them.
According to court officials, judges can respond to emergency bail requests at any time, yet the prosecutors did not initiate this process. “Given this fact, the prosecutor’s comments are horrifically disrespectful… a desperate attempt to blame others for his own shortcomings,” said court spokesman Martin O’Rourke.
Online critiques hit quickly. A conservative TikTok account highlighted the earlier bail situation, mentioning that Krasner had previously allowed a career criminal to be released, which ultimately led to a tragic outcome. Judge Pat Dugan, who is running against Krasner, also spoke out on social media, stating that Krasner had every chance to appeal the low bail and chose not to.
Krasner countered that late-night bail requests often yield unsatisfactory results, explaining that judges are sometimes reluctant to engage in discussions about bail adjustments during off hours.
Investigators believe Scott was likely killed shortly after leaving work. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that King has a history of violent offenses which includes choking and assaulting previous girlfriends.
Krasner’s office has a pattern of dropping charges in cases where witnesses fail to appear. In one instance this year, King attempted to breach his ex-girlfriend’s home and had also been accused of violently choking her, but those charges were dismissed.
Scott’s parents released a heartfelt statement expressing their grief and appreciation for the public support during this difficult time. They stated, “Our hearts are broken… We trust the authorities to uncover the truth and bring those responsible to justice.”
Councilman Anthony Phillips echoed their sentiments, affirming that Scott’s life was significant and noting the profound impact her tragic death has had on their community. He described her as a neighbor, sister, and promising individual who touched many lives.
Krasner’s office has not yet issued further comments on the matter.
