Corey Ruiz’s sister insists that her brother’s criminal history should not define his legacy. At a news conference attended by family and supporters, she made an emotional appeal for justice after his fatal shooting by police. Ruiz, 38, was shot by a Madison police officer responding to reports of a man threatening people with a knife near East Washington Avenue and North First Street.
According to the Madison Police Department, Ruiz ignored multiple commands to drop the knife, injuring one officer during a struggle. Another officer then opened fire. One officer suffered minor injuries in the incident. The Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation is leading an independent inquiry, with the involved officers placed on administrative leave.
Protests over Ruiz’s death have grown in Madison, with demonstrators seeking transparency and accountability from city officials. Ruiz’s sister emphasized that her brother’s criminal record reflects a history of trauma and struggle, not who he truly was.
‘His Criminal Record Does Not Define Who My Brother Was’
Through tears, Ruiz’s sister thanked the community for supporting their family’s pursuit of justice. She stated, “There has already been so much negativity about him, and nobody even knows who he is. His criminal record tells a tale of trauma, of pain, of struggle. It does not define who my brother was.” Supporters echoed her sentiments, voicing agreement and encouragement.
Claims of ‘Execution’
Questioning the circumstances of Ruiz’s death, his sister asked why police decided he should pay with his life based on speculated allegations. Another supporter responded to her question, reinforcing the sentiment of injustice.
She urged anyone who believed the shooting justified to reconsider their viewpoint, reinforcing her family’s quest for accountability and peace. Her concluding call to action emphasized the need for continued public support in seeking justice.
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, beside her, led a chant for justice, which the gathered crowd repeated. Demonstrations in Madison have drawn hundreds, urging for answers, information, and justice for Ruiz. Flowers, candles, and messages fill a memorial at the site of his death.
Calls for Accountability
The protests prompted disruptions at city events. Demonstrators sought answers from Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway and Police Chief John Patterson, impacting official proceedings. A scheduled concert at the Capitol was canceled due to the protests.
Local station WMTV15 reported ongoing gatherings on Williamson Street. Some businesses closed, while others chose to stay open in support. Taylor Swanson, the General Manager of Gib’s store, highlighted their commitment to serving the community during this time.
The Ruiz family, represented by Attorney Crump, demands criminal charges against the officer. Crump argues excessive force, contrasting with police claims of a justified response due to an allegedly injured officer. The incident highlights the lack of body cameras, relying instead on bystander videos and witness accounts.
The Wisconsin Department of Justice continues its investigation, and findings will go to the Dane County District Attorney’s Office to determine any possible criminal charges.
Ruiz’s Extensive Criminal History
Ruiz possessed a significant criminal background. Records show convictions spanning from misdemeanor retail theft and resisting arrest in 2024 to assaults against judicial figures in 2023. In 2021, he faced felony charges for resisting an officer with harm and had prior convictions for drug possession and disorderly conduct.
Newsweek editor Edward Pearcey is managing updates on this story.