Barbara Sheehan has lost her appeal and may now face actual prison time for a conviction on a gun charge related to the shooting death of her husband, a crime for which she was acquitted.
Barbara Sheehan was at work when she learned through a telephone conversation with her attorney that her appeal has been denied.
Sheehan who was acquitted on murder charges in the shooting death of her husband, former NYPD Sgt. Raymond Sheehan back in 2008, now will likely face prison time for an associated gun charge. Although she won her murder case, the jury convicted Sheehan on a gun charge.
From his Manhattan office, her attorney Michael Dowd, well known for his defense of battered woman, described his disappointment, “…it’s a real throwback to the days when domestic violence didn’t matter.” Dowd went on to say that the defense and appeals team will now seek the Court of Appeals consideration on an original lower-court ruling that could take up to a few weeks.
Immediate reaction in the community that rallied around Sheehan on multiple occasions to support her shared in Dowd’s sentiment. “It’s a real shame,” said Dorothy Brown, a neighborhood supporter. “I don’t know her personally, but I know her story. She’s a hero to battered women and now the court has decided to give her abusive husband another victory. What a disgrace.”
There is no word yet as to when a decision will be reached on further appeal or when Sheehan might have to begin serving time.
Barbara Sheehan could not be reached directly for comment as of press time.
By Patricia Adams
