Demanding Justice and Protection for Domestic Violence Victims
Dear Neighbors,
The 48th Ward community has been deeply shaken by two recent domestic violence homicides—tragedies that underscore systemic failures to prioritize the safety of our most vulnerable residents. These incidents highlight the urgent need for accountability and reforms in our judicial system to protect victims and hold those responsible for failures accountable.
Earlier this year, an 11-year-old child in the Edgewater neighborhood tragically lost his life in a domestic violence incident. Despite clear warnings of danger, the court failed to intervene effectively, leaving a family shattered and without the protection they desperately needed.
This week, a Portage Park woman was murdered by her husband, who was on electronic monitoring. Her request for an order of protection was denied just days before her life was cut short.
These cases underscore the need for judges who are prepared to act decisively to protect victims of domestic violence. While we cannot undo the harm, we must act decisively to prevent future tragedies.
What Must Be Done
As your Alderwoman, I will not remain silent in the face of these preventable tragedies. It is clear that the decisions made by Judge Thomas Nowinski have failed to protect vulnerable members of our community and have resulted in irreversible harm.
I am calling for Judge Thomas Nowinski to resign immediately. His repeated failure to grant life-saving orders of protection has demonstrated a lack of sound judgment and a disregard for the safety of survivors.
I urge Chief Judge Timothy Evans to take immediate action. Whether through administrative leave or reassignment, steps must be taken now to ensure Judge Nowinski is no longer presiding over cases where lives are at stake.
We cannot undo these tragedies, but we can honor the victims’ memories by working to ensure that this never happens again. Their lives demand action—not just words.
Your Voice Matters
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, please know that help is available. I encourage you to contact the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-877-863-6338 or visit Illinois Domestic Violence Help.
Together, we can build a safer future for everyone in our community.
In solidarity,
Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth, 48th Ward Alderwoman