Franklin, WI – The following is a statement from Joel Acevedo’s family on their loss and on the charges filed earlier today by the District Attorney’s office against Michael A. Mattioli.
“Joel was a young man full of life whose laugh was contagious. Joel had a smile that would light up a room and a positive energy that would attract others to him. He always saw the best in people and loved everyone with his whole heart. He was funny and witty and loved by all.
He had a very big heart for animals and people. Joel would frequently come home with stray animals and make sure they were returned to their owners safely. He just loved to help others in any way he could, whether it was giving a homeless man a bag of clothes or sharing a joke to make someone smile if they were down. He was an amazing and kind person.
Joel worked as a security guard and aspired to a career in law enforcement. That is why he was friends with so many police officers. It is especially difficult for our family knowing that an officer was involved in taking his life.
This has been the hardest thing our family has ever had to go through. Losing Joel has left a void that can never be filled. We are not sure if we will ever get over this great loss. However, we are grateful that Joel will live on, not only in our memories, but literally in another. Joel was an organ donor, and his heart now beats and is giving the gift of life to another.
While Joel will never be able to tell us what happened. Given the unique circumstances of this case, we look forward to an investigation and prosecution that is open and transparent, and that will ensure
justice is served.
Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers as they are helping to sustain us during this difficult time.”
