In hindsight, I realize that I should have penned this letter much earlier.

Recently, I asked Emily (my attorney) whether the Fortuna family believed I intentionally shot Max Fortuna. Her response was

affirmative. In that moment, a wave of grief washed over me. It struck me how profoundly cruel this belief is to the Fortuna family.

The prosecutor’s twisting and distortion of facts, presenting the case in any manner other than what the evidence supports, is disheartening. Intentionally disregarding other relevant facts only perpetuates deception. All those affected by this tragedy should be allowed to recognize it for the unfortunate accident it truly was and begin the healing process. How can healing occur when the court permits ethical judicial practices to be overshadowed by an officer of the court driven solely by a desire to win, fueled by animosity and deception?

How can someone, who knows nothing of my personality, values, convictions, or past, draw a credible conclusion about my propensity to commit such a crime? Levying unfounded accusations, devoid of consideration for collateral damage, serves no one justly.

From what I’ve learned about Captain Max Fortuna’s character, and as a fellow Gemini, I’m certain he would share this disenchantment.

In my opinion, this situation amounts to nothing less than a modern-day lynching.