In a deeply emotional courtroom moment, Kelly Newman, the mother of a 27-year-old motorcyclist killed by an off-duty Detroit police officer, made an unconventional and heartfelt plea during sentencing: she asked the driver to tattoo her son’s name and date of death on his hand — so he could never forget the life he took.
The crash occurred on the night of August 16, 2024, when Evan Newman of St. Clair Shores was struck and killed at the intersection of 12 Mile Road and I-94 in Roseville. The driver, Corey S. Jones, 29, ran a red light in his 2017 black Jeep Cherokee and collided with Evan’s white 2023 Honda motorcycle. Evan was pronounced dead at the scene.
At the sentencing hearing in Roseville’s 39th District Court on Wednesday, Jones was given 90 days in jail and two years of probation after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor charge of moving violation causing death. While legally appropriate under Michigan law, the punishment did little to comfort the grieving family.
“I would love a tattoo of Evan’s full name on your hand with his date of death so you are always reminded of what you did,” Kelly Newman told the court through tears.
Her request underscored the frustration she feels over what she believes is a justice system that failed her family. She also voiced additional wishes — that Jones permanently lose his driver’s license, be banned from owning firearms, and not be allowed to father more children. Jones currently has a young daughter.
Family Devastated by Light Sentence
Kelly, her husband J. Mark Newman, and Evan’s brother Tyler all spoke at the sentencing, painting a vivid picture of a vibrant young man who loved the outdoors, his motorcycle, and his close-knit family.
“He had a zesty passion for life,” Kelly said. “My soul was crushed and lost on August 16th. It will never be found or put back together in my lifetime.”
The family was further dismayed by what they called inadequate investigation practices by the Roseville Police. Kelly Newman criticized officers for failing to test Jones for alcohol or drugs at the scene. A police report noted Jones claimed his car “malfunctioned,” which allegedly caused him to drive through the red light.
Still, video evidence reportedly shows that Jones initially stopped at the light before proceeding into the intersection, contradicting his claim.
Prosecutor Defends Charge
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido acknowledged the tragedy but defended the misdemeanor charge, stating the legal outcome reflects the “appropriate course of justice under the law.”
“No legal outcome can ever replace a loved one,” Lucido said in a statement. “If you believe stricter penalties are necessary…we encourage you to contact your legislators and advocate for change.”
A Permanent Reminder?
Although her request for a tattoo is symbolic and legally unenforceable, it has captured public attention as a raw and visceral plea from a mother still struggling with unimaginable loss.
The image of a man forever marked with the name of the son he unintentionally killed is a haunting one — and speaks volumes about the emotional toll of road tragedies that ripple far beyond the initial impact.
As Evan Newman’s framed memorial photo sat in the courthouse hallway, held by his father, the courtroom heard not just the story of a lost life, but also of a family forever changed — and a justice system that, for them, came up heartbreakingly short.
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