Story perspectives

Michigan Appeals Court Overturns Terrorism Convictions, Calls Kidnapping Non-Violent

6/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Michigan Court of Appeals panel ruled kidnapping is not a violent felony, overturning Joseph Morrison’s 2022 terrorism convictions.
Judges Thomas Cameron, Mark Boonstra and Brock Swartzle said erroneous jury instructions on kidnapping required reversal.
Attorney General Dana Nessel called the decision nonsensical and announced an appeal to the Michigan Supreme Court.
The case was remanded to Jackson County Circuit Court for a new trial, where prosecutors may refile charges.

History

Historical Context

The Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, signed by President Bill Clinton on September 13 1994, expanded the federal roster of violent felonies, adding roughly 60 new crimes—including kidnapping—under the guidance of Senator Joe Biden. Michigan’s Court of Appeals later overturned 2022 terrorism convictions for not meeting the violent-felony definition, leading Attorney General Dana Nessel to appeal to the state Supreme Court.

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Story summary

The Michigan Court of Appeals panel ruled kidnapping is not a violent felony, overturning Joseph Morrison’s 2022 terrorism convictions.
Judges Thomas Cameron, Mark Boonstra and Brock Swartzle said erroneous jury instructions on kidnapping required reversal.
Attorney General Dana Nessel called the decision nonsensical and announced an appeal to the Michigan Supreme Court.
The case was remanded to Jackson County Circuit Court for a new trial, where prosecutors may refile charges.

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