In the waning days of 2020, a family's life was irrevocably altered by an act of violence. Justin LaMichael Cooper, a 29-year-old Black man from Morrow, Georgia, was shot and killed on December 27, 2020. Known for his love of dancing and his good-natured joking, Justin was a father who was deeply cherished by his family. His death at an apartment complex in Morrow cut short a life that was remembered for its joy and vibrancy.
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, there appeared to be a swift response from law enforcement. An individual alleged to be the shooter was apprehended at the scene of the crime. This initial action provided a glimmer of hope for Justin's grieving family that justice would be served. They anticipated a straightforward legal process, given that a suspect was in custody.
However, the path to justice proved to be fraught with delays and frustrations for the Cooper family. The man arrested in connection with Justin's death was later released on bond. As months turned into years, the family's hope began to wane. By April 2023, nearly two and a half years after Justin's death, the Clayton County District Attorney's office had still not brought the case to prosecution. This lack of progress left his family in a prolonged state of uncertainty and grief, feeling as though their son's life had been forgotten by the very system they trusted to provide answers and accountability. The investigation was described by Clayton County Police as 'difficult,' though they indicated they would refer the case to the district attorney. For a family left with only memories and photographs, the wait for a resolution continues.
