In September 2017, after years of physical abuse and sexual torture, Nicole "Nikki" Addimando fatally shot her abusive partner in self-defense. And in February 2020, Nicole was sentenced to 19 years to life in prison for killing the perpetrator of her abuse, where she became part of the 97% of women in prison nationwide who have experienced physical or sexual abuse.
Long time listeners of WeSTAT know that I have been personally following this case very closely. In 2021, I had the opportunity to focus on Nikki’s case in two episodes: One with Rebecca and Wendy, two representatives of the Nicole Addimando Community Defense Committee, as well as with journalist Justine van der Leun who partnered with Lemonada media and Spiegel and Grau to release a six part award winning podcast about Nikki’s case called “Believe Her” .
Through all of my following of this case, one person’s name comes up over and over, and that is Nikki’s sister, Michelle Horton. Since Nikki’s arrest in 2017, Michelle has been caring for Nikki’s two children, Ben and Faith, quarterbacking her defense strategy and trying to figure out how to support Nikki, herself, and so many others that have been devastated by these events. However, I have never had the opportunity to meet or talk with Michelle, until today.
Michelle Horton is a passionate writer and advocate based in New York's Hudson Valley. As the caregiver for Nikki Addimando's children, and a crucial figure in Nikki's defense strategy, Michelle has emerged as a fierce advocate for survivors of domestic violence. Her forthcoming memoir, "Dear Sister," provides an intimate and eye-opening look at the challenges faced by survivors within the criminal justice system. Through her unwavering commitment and personal experiences, Michelle offers a compelling voice in advocating for the rights of survivors and shedding light on the pervasive issue of domestic violence.
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