Reader: Neighbors who tried to save Crystal Crespin ray of light in dark situation

We recently wrote about the life sentence handed Roberto Santistevan, who was convicted in the fatal stabbing of Crystal Crespin. A grim story, certainly, but one that showed a glimmer of humanity thanks to the actions of neighbors who tried in vain to save Crespin and held Santistevan for police,...

By Michael Roberts

May 17, 2012

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We recently wrote about the life sentence handed Roberto Santistevan, who was convicted in the fatal stabbing of Crystal Crespin.

A grim story, certainly, but one that showed a glimmer of humanity thanks to the actions of neighbors who tried in vain to save Crespin and held Santistevan for police, as this reader notes.

Kat writes:

In keeping with the spirit of this page, I have one thing to say regarding the neighbors:

Occupation -- Human Beings and Heros. -- In a day and age when trust and compassion is in short supply, and most people would either ignore it or not want to get involved they stepped in and proved that humanity and human decency has a chance.

To the family of Ms. Crespin: -- As belated as this might be, I would like to convey my condolences for your loss. I'm just sorry that she was never able to physically see justice done.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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