In a powerful story of perseverance and determination, Josephine Wentzel has transformed her personal tragedy into a nationwide movement for justice. After the devastating murder of her daughter, Crystal Mitchell, in June 2016, Josephine became a fierce advocate, dedicated to hunting down the perpetrator and preventing others from feeling the same unbearable grief she had experienced. Rather than waiting for law enforcement to take action, she took matters into her own hands, launching a relentless pursuit that culminated in the capture of her daughter’s killer, Raymond McLeod, six years later.
Josephine’s journey is anything but ordinary. When McLeod went into hiding, she refused to let him evade justice. Through her sheer determination and unwavering faith, the tip she received in August 2022 led to McLeod’s arrest in El Salvador, a remarkable feat for any grieving mother. This moment of triumph, however, was just the beginning. As she hunted for justice, Josephine encountered countless other families grappling with similar heartaches. Recognizing their struggles, she founded Angels of Justice, an organization aimed at helping these families navigate their own quests for justice.
The formation of Angels of Justice marks a significant turning point in Josephine’s life. She soon found herself leading a team of six parents and advocates, all of whom had experienced unimaginable loss. Together, they provide the emotional support and assistance that many families desperately need. Josephine shares a heartwarming sentiment, revealing that her group plays a crucial role in attending court hearings and holding each other up during the most difficult of times. Their collective mission is not only personal but also political, as they advocate for much-needed reforms in the way law enforcement handles unsolved cases.
One of the main objectives of Josephine’s mission is to push for increased funding and resources for law enforcement agencies to help solve the backlog of murder cases across the country. With over 260,000 cold case homicides still unsolved, she believes that the federal government should prioritize this issue with the same urgency as any other pressing national concern. Her initiative resonates with many, especially as crime continues to plague urban areas, leaving families in a perpetual state of despair. Josephine, along with her team, emphasizes how advancements in forensic technology could be the key to cracking some of these long-standing mysteries.
In her own way, Josephine Wentzel has become a beacon of hope not just for herself, but for countless others grappling with loss and seeking answers. Her motto, “Make America safe again,” reflects a heartfelt commitment to restoring safety and justice in communities across the nation. With her relentless spirit and unyielding advocacy, she aims to inspire others to join the fight against crime. She believes that with the right support, including from influential leaders, real change is within reach. Josephine’s story serves as a poignant reminder that out of heartbreak can come the most powerful movements for justice, healing, and hope.
