Supporters of Chicago mother call on state's attorney to drop charges ahead of murder trial
Keshia Golden's legal team argues she was domestic violence victim, defending herself, unborn child
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Supporters of a Chicago woman charged in the death of her boyfriend rallied at Daley Plaza on Thursday, calling on the Cook County State's Attorney's Office to drop the charges ahead of her murder trial.
They gathered in downtown Chicago, chanting and marching around 69 W. Washington St. before entering the building's lobby for a period of time. The rally focused on the prosecution of Keshia Golden, who is scheduled to go on trial Monday.
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Golden is charged in connection with the 2022 death of her then-boyfriend, Calvin Sydney. According to supporters and attorneys, Golden was eight months pregnant when she stabbed Sydney in the leg following the couple's baby shower. Sydney died from the injury.
The Women's Justice Institute and members of Golden's legal team argued during the rally that Golden was a victim of domestic violence who was defending herself and her unborn child.
"I want women to stop being criminalized for surviving; we are simply sending the message to other girls and women," said Shanice Page of the Women's Justice Institute.
Golden's attorneys and supporters are seeking dismissal of the charges.
"Dismiss these charges and let Keshia and her daughter walk free into their futures," said Kyan Keenan, a Cook County assistant public defender. "The medical evidence supports Keshia; the physical evidence supports Keshia. The history of violence supports Keshia, and the truth supports Keshia."
Relatives of Sydney could not be reached for comment on the case.
In a statement, the Cook County State's Attorney's Office defended the decision to pursue charges against Golden.
The statement reads in part, "These determinations are based on a thorough review of the evidence that is gathered by law enforcement and presented to us at the conclusion of their investigation. As this case remains pending litigation, we are unable to comment further at this time."
Golden's attorney said she was unable to speak publicly at Thursday's rally because she was caring for her daughter, who is now 3 years old and has a medical condition.
You can contact the Illinois domestic violence hotline at 1-877-863-6338 click here for more information.
