In a decision that has stirred controversy, Eddie Ray Johnson Jr. was sentenced to three years of probation after entering a no-contest plea to manslaughter for the fatal shooting of Detroit Police Sgt. Elaine Williams. As reported by CBS News Detroit, the incident, which occurred in 2019, ended with both Johnson and Williams sustaining gunshot wounds and has since fuelled discussions on domestic violence and the justice system's handling of such cases.

During the trial, details emerged about the night of the shooting, where both individuals had been drinking heavily. According to toxicology reports, Williams had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.240, and Johnson a 0.189. A struggle ensued over Williams' department-issued handgun, leading to the fatal gunfire. It was articulated by FOX 2 Detroit, that Johnson claimed he shot Williams in self-defense after she first shot him. This assertion has contributed to making sense of the events that led to the plea deal, a decision that has since been deeply criticized by Williams' family and supporters.

The victim's father condemned the justice system in court, stating, as per FOX 2 Detroit, "He ain't nothing but a piece of crap and he knows it - he shot our daughter in the back," while a female relative expressed despair, "You stole her from us and it’s not fair that the system has no justice." Prosecutor Kym Worthy explained, per FOX 2 Detroit, the complexities of the case and the rationale behind the plea, "The evidence was carefully considered by three veteran assistant prosecutors and myself. In this case, where both parties were shot with the same gun, the order of events is open to multiple interpretations. Considering our burden of proof, we believe this is an appropriate resolution."

Though the legal resolution has granted Johnson probation, the decision did not come without conditions. Should he violate his probation, he could be sentenced to up to 15 years in prison. This situation accentuates the ongoing discourse on domestic violence and the challenges faced by prosecutors in cases where self-defense is claimed. Harnessing public outcry, Williams' mother voiced her dismay to FOX 2 Detroit, "The system has failed us," a sentiment reverberating through the community as they grapple with the outcome of this tragic event.