Judge Gives CSUMB Student Second Chance

Elaine Schumacher, Staff Reporter

Elaine_Schumacher@csumb.edu

April 7, 2008

On March 3 all charges against Macheel Roper, a Behavioral Science senior of CSU-Monterey Bay (CSUMB) were dismissed. Roper was accused of taking the life of her husband in self-defense during an altercation on Dec. 21, 2007.

“When I was released, I could not stop hugging my children,” said Roper. She added that her two children are coping with the loss of their father and sometimes it was tough. “Both children know what happened and they are in counseling, learning how to deal with their feelings,” said Roper.

Defense attorney, Jim Egar stated that he was pleased with the outcome. “This was a unique situation between a husband and wife and it is satisfying to know that the principles of laws existed for the accused,” said Egar. “If there is reasonable fear that one’s life in is danger, one has the right to defend yourself,” added Egar. 

He went on to say that Roper has been given a second opportunity to live her life and believes she will do her best to be a good mother to her children. 

According to Cathy Nyznyk, Director of the Children’s Care Center at Monterey Peninsula College (MPC), Roper often took her children to the campus center while she attended classes. 

“Macheel served as president of the parent’s advisory club here [at MPC] and when I heard that the charges against her were dropped, I was relieved because the children would still have one parent,” said Nyznyk. 

“If you are experiencing abuse in your relationship, ascertain your personal level of comfort and if it is negative, get out, walk away, especially if there is physical abuse,” Roper advised. 

Now, when she thinks of her husband, she tries to think only of the good times they shared. 

“It happened so quickly, I paused hoping he would stop but he did not,” said Roper.

“Only through God’s glory am I free,” Roper said of her release. 

“I want to thank all of the people who prayed for me because God heard and answered those prayers,” Roper added.

If you are experiencing domestic violence, please contact:

Shelter Outreach Plus, 

Salinas-24 hour hotline 

831-422-2201

Women’s Crisis Support 

831-757-1001 831-757-1002

YWCA Domestic Violence 

Crisis Line 

831-372-6300 

24 hr hotline 1-800-992-2151

YWCA Counseling 

831-655-9222