Update on Chrystul Kizer’s Case

On July 6, 2022, the Wisconsin Supreme Court announced a 4-3 ruling related to the state’s affirmative defense law. This ruling means Chrystul Kizer and her legal team will have the opportunity to present evidence in trial that the crimes she is charged with were a direct result of the violence she experienced. 

Chrystul is a Black 22-year-old survivor of sexual violence currently facing criminal prosecution for actions taken in self-defense. Chrystul was arrested at 17 years old and was incarcerated pretrial for nearly two years until June 2020 when CCBF, Chrystul Kizer Defense Committee, and partners paid Chrystul’s $400,000 bond. Chystul has since continued fighting her case from outside of a cage and with the support of her community.

The Supreme Court ruling is good news for Chrystul and other survivors who have been criminalized for defending themselves in Wisconsin. CCBF shares Chrystul Kizer’s Defense Committee’s hope that this decision will propel the District Attorney to drop the charges entirely and allow Chrystul to heal. 

How Can I Support? 

Contact Kenosha County District Attorney Michael Graveley to demand he drop Chrystul’s charges at (262) 653 – 2400 and/or via email at michael.graveley@da.wi.gov 

Sample Script: 

“Hi, my name is [your name] and I am calling today urging DA Graveley to drop the charges against criminalized survivor Chrystul Kizer so that she can heal. Thank you for your time.”