Bail REFORM Demanded – Killer WALKS Free
The family of Ashlee Long, a 28-year-old Texas realtor fatally shot in Dallas, is fighting for justice by demanding bail reform after her accused killer was released on a $500,000 bond despite prosecutor objections.
At a Glance
- Kendrick Finch is accused of killing Ashlee Long during a confrontation in downtown Dallas but was released on a $500,000 bond
- Long’s family has launched justiceforashlee.com to advocate for stricter bail laws for violent offenders
- The family is aligning with Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who supports constitutional amendments to restrict bail for violent crimes
- Finch claims self-defense, saying Long’s companion, William Kistler, reached for a gun first
- Long was a successful realtor and University of Houston graduate who was engaged to be married
A Family’s Fight for Bail Reform
The grieving family of Ashlee Long has transformed their pain into purpose following the release of her alleged killer on bond. Kendrick Finch, charged with Long’s murder, posted a $500,000 bond and walked free despite the severity of the charges against him. This development has spurred Long’s relatives to create a website, justiceforashlee.com, specifically designed to rally support for changing Texas bail laws. Their campaign centers on preventing violent offenders from receiving bond, which they believe puts communities at risk and denies justice to victims and their families.
Gillian Kimber, a family member speaking on behalf of the Long family, has become the voice of their movement. “Bond reform is something that our family is going to stay on for years. Not only for Ashlee, but for anyone,” Kimber stated. Their advocacy has quickly gained attention from state officials, including Governor Greg Abbott, who has previously expressed support for constitutional amendments that would restrict bail for those accused of violent crimes.
“I feel like you shouldn’t be able to murder someone and get out on bail. As a family member, to have that possibility of seeing someone like that in public, I don’t think that is right or just.”, said Gillian Kimber.
The Fatal Confrontation
The tragic incident that claimed Long’s life occurred in downtown Dallas following what police describe as a chance encounter. According to reports, Long and her friend William Kistler were walking when Kistler touched a white Mercedes Benz that Finch was in. This seemingly minor action escalated quickly into a deadly confrontation. Surveillance video shows Finch shooting Long, who later succumbed to her injuries at a local hospital. Finch initially fled the scene but later turned himself in to authorities on April 18.
Finch’s defense team maintains he acted in self-defense, claiming that Kistler instigated the conflict by reaching for a firearm first. Kistler, who was also wounded in the exchange, was later arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon along with other charges. Despite attempts by Finch’s attorneys to reduce his bond, a Dallas County judge recently denied this request, keeping the bond at $500,000 – an amount Finch was ultimately able to post.
“The person who shot that bullet is walking the streets. That is the problem we are focused on this week.”, added Kimber.
Life Cut Short
Ashlee Long’s life story stands in stark contrast to her violent end. A University of Houston graduate, Long had built a successful career as a realtor. She was in Dallas on a business trip when the incident occurred. Friends and family describe her as vibrant and ambitious, with a promising future ahead. Long was engaged to be married to her fiancé in Houston, adding another layer of tragedy to her untimely death that has left her loved ones devastated.
Conditions of Release
While Finch has been released from custody, his freedom comes with significant restrictions. The court has mandated that he wear an ankle monitor at all times, submit to random drug testing, and is strictly prohibited from possessing firearms. These conditions, though substantial, provide little comfort to Long’s family, who maintain that someone accused of such a serious violent crime should not be eligible for pre-trial release regardless of bond amount or conditions imposed.
Legislative Push
The Long family’s advocacy comes at a time when bail reform is already a contentious topic in Texas politics. Governor Abbott has previously voiced support for amending the state constitution to give judges more authority to deny bail in cases involving violent crimes. The family hopes their tragedy will serve as a catalyst for legislative action, potentially leading to what supporters would call more victim-centered bail policies. By joining forces with other advocates and state officials, they aim to ensure that Ashlee’s death brings about meaningful change in how the criminal justice system handles violent offenders.
