On June 13th, 2023, a horrifying incident unfolded on I-25 in Denver that left 25-year-old Stephan Long fearing for his life. This petition seeks justice for Stephan and calls for an immediate release and the dismissal of all charges against Stephan who was afraid for his life and forced to defend himself.

Stephan, a young Black father, was simply driving along the highway when he found himself caught in a road rage incident. Two young white men riding in the car ahead abruptly stopped, and without warning, the passenger jumped out and approached Stephan's vehicle. In an unprovoked attack, this individual physically assaulted Stephan while he sat in his car.

In self-defense and with legal possession of a firearm, Stephan made the difficult decision to protect himself by firing at his attacker. However, instead of diffusing the situation, it escalated further when the driver of the other vehicle also exited his car and aggressively approached Stephan.  As he attempted to drive away, the man grabbed onto Stephan's car forcefully, refusing to let go before he was shot. 

This terrifying ordeal highlights a critical flaw in how laws are applied unequally and fail to adequately address situations when innocent community members of color are forced into self-defense against violent aggressors. Research and data have proven that far too often the very self-defense laws that protect white citizens are not afforded to men and women of color. We have serious doubts that the outcome in this case would be the same had the roles been reversed. It is unjust that individuals like Stephan can be victimized twice – first by being attacked without provocation and then by facing serious legal consequences for defending themselves. Stephan Long is currently being held with a one million dollar bail and facing 2 first-degree murder charges. 

By signing this petition, you are standing up for justice and demanding equal protection of individuals regarding the application of self-defense laws. Join us in urging Denver District Attorney Beth McCann to dismiss this case and release Stephan Long immediately.

Petition Creator's Note:

At Denver Justice Project, we are deeply committed to radically transforming the criminal legal system and advocating for safe and healthy communities through an intersectional lens. This petition is personal because it highlights the urgent need for change within our current laws that often fail innocent individuals like Stephan Long. Help us make a difference by signing today!