DETROIT, Mich. — The harrowing story of Latricia Green, who was fatally shot by her ex-husband Mario Green, reveals the ongoing dangers faced by survivors of domestic violence and the challenges within the legal system in protecting them.
Latricia Green first sought protection from Mario Green months before her death. On June 13, 2025, she filed a personal protection order (PPO) in Wayne County Circuit Court, detailing alarming threats and harassment. In her application, Latricia described Mario stalking her, repeatedly calling her workplace, threatening to meet employees outside, and attempting to enter her office without permission.
The court, however, denied the PPO. Within weeks, Mario Green’s behavior escalated, prompting Latricia to submit a second application on July 20, 2025. In this filing, she recounted instances of him breaking into her car, damaging her personal belongings, following her across the city, and attempting to block her vehicle. She wrote:
“I have tried being cordial because I feel that the system has now let me down each time that I have tried to make reports on this man. My father was murdered and now with this situation I am now in mental distress and scared not knowing what to do.”
Latricia also expressed her constant fear for her safety:
“I have to constantly look over my shoulder to make sure this man is not following me to hurt me like he has done in the past with physical abuse. I am asking for help before this goes too far, and things are too late.”
On July 21, 2025, a Wayne County judge granted the PPO, acknowledging that Mario Green posed a threat to his ex-wife. Tragically, the protective order was never served to Mario Green, leaving Latricia vulnerable. As Detroit Police Department Assistant Chief Charles Fitzgerald explained:
“Unfortunately, (the PPO) was not served on her ex-husband. So it almost brings us here today.”
Mario Green had a long criminal history, including aggravated stalking convictions in 2001 and nearly six years in prison for arson, before his release in 2012. These prior offenses underscore the risks posed by repeat offenders and the difficulties in keeping victims safe even when red flags are present.
The death of Latricia Green highlights systemic issues in domestic violence cases, including the timely serving of protective orders, monitoring of high-risk individuals, and gaps in legal enforcement that can leave victims exposed to harm. Advocates emphasize that stricter procedures and follow-up are critical in preventing such tragedies.
Latricia Green’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of listening to survivors, taking their concerns seriously, and ensuring that the legal system acts decisively to protect those at risk. Her loss is deeply felt by her family, friends, and the community, and it has sparked renewed calls for reforms in domestic violence prevention and enforcement.
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