US officials will not pursue charges in the death of Shanquella Robinson, who died while vacationing in Mexico.
Federal authorities have announced that they will not pursue charges in the death of Shanquella Robinson, a 25-year-old who was found dead in a rental unit while on vacation in Mexico last October. The decision was made after a review of the evidence, including two separate autopsy reports.
Robinson’s death sparked public outcry after videos began circulating online that appeared to show her naked and being brutally beaten by a member of the group with which she was traveling. An autopsy report from Mexico revealed that Robinson had a broken neck and a severe spinal cord injury, according to The Washington Post.
However, a later autopsy conducted in the United States did not show the spinal cord injury, and while there was swelling in her brain, the cause of death was not determined, according to the family’s attorney.
Based on the results of the second autopsy and a review of investigative materials, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina said in a statement Wednesday that “the available evidence does not support a federal prosecution.” The statement added that the government is “prepared to review and examine new information related to the investigation should it become available.”
The decision not to pursue charges has left Robinson’s family and friends disappointed and frustrated. They had hoped that justice would be served and that those responsible for her death would be held accountable.
The family’s attorney, Sarah Flowers, said in a statement that they were “disappointed with the decision of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, but not surprised.” Flowers added that they will continue to seek answers and justice for Robinson’s death.
Robinson’s death is a tragic reminder of the dangers that can come with traveling abroad. The U.S. State Department warns travelers to Mexico to exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping, and to avoid certain areas altogether.
The decision not to pursue charges in Robinson’s death is a reminder that justice is not always served, but it is important for victims and their families to continue seeking answers and holding those responsible accountable.