Trans Woman Faces Assault Charges Despite Wyoming's 'Stand Your Ground' Law
Rihanna Kelver, a transgender woman in Laramie, Wyoming, is facing two felony charges of aggravated assault and possession of a deadly weapon with unlawful intent. The charges stem from an incident where Kelver, after being pushed to the ground by Scott Durham, drew a pistol in self-defense. Despite Wyoming's 'Stand Your Ground' law, which allows individuals to use reasonable force in self-defense, Kelver is being prosecuted. Surveillance footage and court testimony indicate that Kelver was subjected to homophobic and transphobic slurs before being physically assaulted. Although Kelver did not fire the weapon, she faces up to 15 years in prison and significant fines. The case has sparked debate over the application of self-defense laws, particularly for marginalized communities. 
