Defendant Successfully Asserts Self Defense
Today, John Lesch concluded a jury trial brought by Hennepin County against H.S. (name withheld), who for years had been beaten for years by her ex boyfriend. He has convictions for stalking her, and for a felony assault against her which resulted in a concussion, broken bones, and chipped teeth from when he punched her in the mouth. He went to her house on December 16, in violation of a Domestic Abuse No Contact Order, where he strangled her and beat her. She defended herself by throwing a candle at him. When the police arrived, she continued to protect her abuser by telling police he had not done anything. They then charged her with 3rd degree felony assault for throwing the candle at him (it split his lip, 2 stitches). Hennepin County relentlessly prosecuted the case, which resulted in a 3-day felony jury trial that began on Monday morning and concluded today at noon. It took the jury only 22 minutes to return with a verdict of NOT GUILTY. We are so proud of H.S. for finally sticking up for herself, and for doing an outstanding job testifying in court. We also want to send serious kudos to Amanda Keuseman of Home Free Battered Women’s services. She provided amazing trial support, not to mention the months through which she helped H.S. in her journey from abuse to vindication before a jury of her peers.