Statement on the Dismissal of Charges Against Stephan Long
Stephan Long is finally free! After 14 long months of unjust prosecutorial practices, the remaining charge of first-degree murder against Stephan has finally been dismissed. This dismissal is not just a legal victory; it represents the justice that Stephan deserved from the very beginning. This decision was not made because new evidence came to light. His case is a glaring example of the systemic overreach and inequitable application of the law that directly contributes to racial disparities that plague our legal system, particularly when Black men are forced to defend themselves against white aggressors.
We have said it before, and we will say it again: self-defense is not a crime. The justice Stephan was denied for so long underscores the profound bias in how these laws are applied—biases that disproportionately punish people of color. We will not stand by silently and accept the weaponization of the law against those who rightfully defend themselves. Nor will we stand by silently while white individuals exploit self-defense laws as a tool to kill innocent Black and brown people. Our voices will not be silenced, and this victory is proof of that.
While this is a monumental win for the community—a triumph born from the relentless efforts of the thousands of community members who used their voices, time, and resources to support Stephan’s cause—it is only the beginning. The fight for justice does not end here. As Stephan and his family finally begin their journey towards healing and reunion, we must remember that the trauma and harm are not dismissed as soon as the charges are. The generational impact of predatory policing, prosecution, imprisonment, and parole structures, are practices that reverberate through individuals, families, and communities for generations, even when there is no conviction. Financial instability, lack of mental health services, housing insecurity, and other long-term impacts from the harm that has been done still remain.
This victory fuels our commitment to continue the fight for justice and accountability, and we call on everyone who believes in fairness and equality to join us. The work is far from over, but together, we can create a future where justice is truly blind and where every person, regardless of race, is afforded the rights and protections they deserve. Thank you to everyone who stepped up and took action; let this be your proof that when we lean in, lean on each other, and lead with love, we can create transformative change.
In Solidarity,
Denver Justice Project
