CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A jury has convicted Matthew Lewinski of first-degree murder, concluding a harrowing trial concerning the death of Courtney “Jerri” Winters. The court heard evidence that Lewinski, 42, strangled his ex-girlfriend in their former home, then concealed her body in the basement for seven months before it was discovered by family members.
The case stems from a violent encounter that took place in December 2020, shortly after Winters, 39, visited Lewinski at their shared condominium in the Crosswinds development. Prosecutors recounted that during the visit, an argument erupted following Winters’ disclosure of having an abortion. Testimony revealed that emotions escalated into physical confrontation; Winters reportedly bit Lewinski before he responded with lethal force.
The details surrounding the discovery of her remains were just as unsettling. In July 2021, an unusual series of events shed light on the concealed crime. While Lewinski was hospitalized after being found wandering inappropriately dressed on the condominium grounds, the complex’s management contacted his sister, Debra Federico, due to unusual activity in the unit. Family members entered the condo in search of a Christmas ornament and stumbled upon Winters’ decomposed body in the basement.
Investigators later confirmed that the body showed signs of trauma, including evidence suggesting that portions of skin were removed. The presence of blood, cleaning supplies, and a weapon in the basement further fueled the investigation into Lewinski’s actions. Neighbors had reportedly noticed a foul odor emanating from the condo for weeks but were unaware of its grim source.
Lewinski’s confession to law enforcement at the hospital was a critical component of the prosecution’s case. He reportedly stated that Winters had provoked him, a claim that his defense team leaned on during the trial. They argued that Winters had a history of aggression, momentarily shifting the focus away from Lewinski’s alleged control over her.
The prosecution countered this narrative by emphasizing the calculated nature of the murder, pointing out that strangulation involves prolonged intent. They painted a picture of Lewinski as someone who, after committing the act, deliberately concealed the crime by keeping the body hidden and living in the same space for months. Evidence of his attempts to manage clean-up operations after the killing underscored this claim.
Throughout the trial, jurors were presented with conflicting portrayals of the relationship. While the defense attempted to frame Lewinski as a victim of domestic violence, prosecutors painted a different picture, citing his strained family relationships and the controlling dynamics of the partnership. Testimonies indicated that Lewinski maintained a level of control even months after Winters’ death, as he continued his life in the condo.
As the trial concluded, the jury accepted the prosecution’s argument and convicted Lewinski not only of first-degree murder but also of mutilation and concealment of a body. His sentencing is slated for July 14, where he faces life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
This tragic case highlights broader issues surrounding domestic violence and the complexities involved in intimate partner relationships. As Winters’ family prepares to address the court during sentencing, the impact of her loss resonates deeply within the community, shedding light on the need for vigilance in recognizing and addressing signs of abuse.