Justice Served, but at What Cost? A Family's 13-Year Fight for Accountability
Thirteen years of relentless pursuit have finally led to a measure of justice for the Stingley family. But as they reflect on their journey, questions linger about the true cost of this hard-won victory.A Life Cut Short
In 2012, Corey Stingley's life was tragically cut short when three men restrained him to the ground in a shoplifting incident. The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner ruled his death a homicide, citing asphyxiation due to a brain injury. But despite initial charges being declined by prosecutors, the case remained closed without any accountability for those involved.
A Family's Unrelenting Quest
Craig Stingley, Corey's father, has been at the forefront of this fight for justice. He uncovered a rarely used 'John Doe' statute that allowed him to petition a judge to review whether a crime occurred. This led to the appointment of special prosecutor Ozanne, who ultimately found evidence of a crime but acknowledged that a conviction was uncertain.
Restorative Justice: A Path Forward
In 2024, Ozanne informed the Stingley family that restorative justice might be an option. Through the Andrew Center for Restorative Justice at Marquette University Law School, the family met face-to-face with Beringer and Cole under the supervision of a retired judge. This process brought 'truth, understanding, and a measure of healing' to all involved.
A New Path Forward
The agreement reached between the Stingley family and those responsible for Corey's death has been hailed as a model for restorative justice. Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Laura Crivello praised the resolution, saying it 'makes other people see similarities in each other and not differences.' But as the Stingley family looks to the future, they remain committed to ensuring that their son's memory is honored and his legacy lives on.
The Stingley family's 13-year fight for justice has finally come to an end. While this hard-won victory brings a measure of closure, it also raises important questions about the true cost of restorative justice. As we reflect on this case, let us remember the profound impact that one life can have on those around them and strive towards creating a world where such tragedies are never repeated.
#News #Featured #Legal
