Englewood resident Michela L. Johnson has been charged with first-degree murder for the stabbing death of her husband on Monday, reports ABC7 News.
Her husband, Untre Johnson, reportedly died on Monday at John J. Stroger Jr. Hospital as a result of a severe stab wound to the back. Police believe Michela stabbed him during a domestic dispute earlier that day at her residence, according to ABC7.
However, police would not reveal the circumstances leading up to the fatal stabbing or the couple’s relationship.
Generally, someone can be charged with first-degree murder if they intend to kill or do great bodily harm. First-degree murder is usually the worst form of homicide crime and is punishable by life in prison.
First-degree murder defenses can vary, ranging from mistaken identity to self-defense. Since the stabbing happened during an alleged domestic dispute, self-defense may be a viable defense for Michela.
To succeed on an argument of self-defense, a defendant must show that the killing resulted from a reasonable use of force to resist a reasonable fear of death or bodily harm.
Given the severity of the crime, it is likely in the best interest of Michela L. Johnson to retain the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney or public defender to plan out her defense. However, more details need to be released regarding the circumstances of Untre’s death before any speculations can be made about her case.
For more information on the crime of first-degree murder and the potential defenses to the charge, see our Related Resources section.
Related Resources:
- Find a Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney (FindLaw)
- First-Degree Murder (FindLaw)
- Lynwood Murder Mystery: Wife Kidnapped, Husband Killed (The Chicago Criminal Law Blog)
ShareThis
