Statement on Tragic Death in Domestic Violence Case
Alderwoman Larresa Taylor
A woman who tried to protect herself from her estranged husband was stabbed to death yesterday in Kenosha. Police have arrested the husband for her homicide, and the case reminds us of the importance of having systems in place to protect those most vulnerable in domestic abuse cases. Makayla Plaza was the victim of yesterday’s homicide in Kenosha, despite her attempts to protect herself. On February 3, she filed for a restraining order and was denied for failure to meet the burden of proof. In my opinion, there is no reason to deny a restraining order when you have a cry for help to protect a mother and her children. This legitimate attempt to secure protection ended with a senseless loss of life.
Makayla reportedly filed for divorce the day before filing for the restraining order (and reported the abuse she was subjected to) but the system failed her. This is why the work of the Milwaukee Commission on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault is so critical and more important than ever.
When do we take the cries for help from victims seriously? This has to change. How many more lives do we need to lose before we change the burden of proof requirement in favor of the victim? It should not be on the victim to prove she is in danger! Makayla should still be alive.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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