Michiel acted in self-defense, protecting himself against a violent attack by Mark Stover, and Stover died in the ensuing struggle.
If Michiel’s testimony, which demonstrated his innocence through self-defense, stood unimpeached and uncontested, how is it possible for a jury to still find him guilty? Yes, valid questions are raised, but each has a reasonable and legitimate explanation. Altogether, none can be used to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Michiel did not act in self-defense.
However, one possible flaw yet remains in Michiel’s defense. Nobody else witnessed him acting in self-defense. Nobody can attest that his testimony, in its entirety, is true. Because of this, Michiel’s defense was reliant on a small number of critical testimonies, each of which corroborated a different component of his testimony. The bullet in his vest, along with the ballistics analysis, spoke of him being shot. The police tracking and cadaver dogs confirmed his description of events surrounding the confrontation. Linda’s testimony confirmed Stover’s history of stalking, intimidation, and threatening behavior.
Unfortunately, other testimonies were not permitted in court, despite being critical to corroborating Michiel’s defense. Among these witnesses was one of Mark Stover’s former employees, who intended to testify of Mark’s words and behavior surrounding his discovery of Michiel’s involvement with Linda. This testimony would have confirmed Mark’s possession of firearms (a direct violation of his Domestic Violence Protection Order), his surveillance of Michiel in Kennewick, Washington, and his intent to travel to Montana simultaneous to Michiel and Linda’s brief visit. All of these elements, which went to corroborating Michiel’s testimony, were not allowed in court.
Many people believe that this evidence could have spelled the difference in Michiel’s defense, and should have been allowed. However, the defense’s motions were denied in this regard, and the testimonies were never heard.
Michiel is now incarcerated in the Washington State penal system and may remain so for the next 25 years. The only chance that Michiel has to be reunited with his family, friends, and loved-ones is through the state appellate court.
Regrettably, the appeal process will take a minimum of 1-2 years, during which Michiel will remain separated from his loving family. He will miss at least one of his daughters’ high school graduations during this time, and his granddaughter will be walking and talking before his case is heard.
If you believe as we do, that Michiel’s case was handled unjustly, resulting in a wrongful conviction, please help his family raise the legal funds needed to fight for his freedom.
Free Oakes 