Jada Johnson's grandparents seek justice through state lawmakers
The family of the Fayetteville woman who died last year after being shot 17 times by police is asking state lawmakers for help.
The family of Jada Johnson announced Friday morning they are filing a petition with the General Assembly for redress of grievances and a prayer for relief.
A petition for redress refers to a formal or official plea made by an individual or group to address a grievance, seek compensation or rectify a perceived injustice or harm. It typically involves requesting a remedy, resolution or acknowledgment of wrongdoing from the responsible party or authority. The purpose of such a request is to seek redress or relief for the aggrieved party.
A prayer for relief is a formal request made by the plaintiff in a legal complaint outlining the specific remedies or actions they seek from the court to address their grievances.
Johnson's grandparents spoke at the press conference.
Her grandfather, Rick Iwanski, a veteran, said he respects the work police officers do and understands they put their lives at risk in the interest of public safety. However, he said officers need to be held accountable when they step outside the bounds of the law.
“That’s it, we can’t trust them," he said. "We need to get back to trusting these law enforcement officers."
It was recently announced that the officers involved in the killing of Johnson will not face criminal charges.
“Once again, the public is let down by the justice system," Rick said.
Rick said it was disappointing news.
"It appears that this is just a big dog-and-pony show to show people that we’re doing something when we’re doing nothing except condoning death and murder," he said.
Now, Johnson's grandparents are asking the N.C. General Assembly to help them seek justice for the death of their granddaughter.
“I’m sending this to the General Assembly, and I’m asking our representatives to help me … and stop these senseless killings by police officers using excessive force, negligence or willful misconduct," Rick said.
Johnson's grandfather is asking the N.C. General Assembly to make the necessary changes and reforms to hold officers accountable for unlawful killings.
“There’s no consequence for killing someone," he said.
Johnson’s grandmother, Irene Iwanski, began crying as she thanked the public for their continued support.
“Thank you for being here and being with us from day one,” she said. “Thank you.”
The killing of Jada Johnson
Jada Johnson, 22, was shot 17 times during a July 1, 2022, struggle with police.
Johnson's grandparents and daughter, who is now 3 years old, watched as she was gunned down by police in front of her grandparents' home.
Her grandparents called police because they said she was suffering a mental health crisis.
Investigators said Johnson pulled out a gun and threatened to harm herself.
Officers tackled her and shots were fired.
An autopsy showed Johnson was shot 17 times.
"What I saw was murder," Johnson's grandfather said. "There was a total lack of humanity and compassion."
Months after the fatal shooting of Johnson, her family filed a federal lawsuit against the officer who shot Johnson and against the city of Fayetteville.
However, Attorney General Josh Stein later announced that the Fayetteville officers who shot and killed Jada will not face charges.
Now, the family is asking for the General Assembly's help in their pursuit for justice.
