Statement from the Denver Justice Project on the Arraignment of Jeremy Alan Smith in the Killing of Adam Fresquez
Yesterday, after a long and painful wait, Jeremy Alan Smith was finally arraigned on charges of second-degree murder and manslaughter for the killing of Adam Michael Fresquez on May 3rd, 2023. This arraignment marks just one step in the long, patient journey toward justice for Adam’s family.
On that day in May, Adam was involved in a verbal altercation with Jeremy after being followed into a Tesla charging station in Edgewater. Jeremy claimed self-defense, alleging that Adam pulled a gun on him, but the facts tell a different story. Jeremy maced Adam in the face before shooting him twice in the back. Adam did possess a legally registered firearm, but it was found under him, inside his waistband when first responders arrived. Despite these facts, Jeremy was allowed to continue his life for seven months without consequence, while the Fresquez family endured unimaginable pain.
The Fresquez family has been relentless in their pursuit of justice for Adam and in bringing attention to the misuse and weaponization of self-defense laws to justify violence in our communities. Their courage and determination reflect our shared commitment at the Denver Justice Project to radically transform the criminal legal system, ensuring that their tragic loss is not in vain.
The motions hearing for this case is scheduled for December 19th, and we will continue to stand with Lena Fresquez and her family as they seek accountability. We invite you to join us in this fight for justice and to stand against the misuse of laws designed to protect, not harm. We also want to thank everyone who has followed this case, showed up to court or shared Adam’s story.
Will you stand with us?
In solidarity,
The Denver Justice Project
