April Wilkens’ Fight For Freedom in Oklahoma Continues After 29 Years

She remained at the scene for police to arrive

In November 2025, her defense claimed two Assistant District Attorneys (ADA) within the Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office bought Wilkens’ former home where she lived during her abusive relationship, according to court documents.

“…Present counsel has learned that two Assistant District Attorneys (ADAs) in the Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office purchased the home where Ms. Wilkens lived during the time of her abusive relationship to Mr. Carlton,” read the motion.

“On October 31st, 2025, ADA Ashley Nix and ADA Luke Thompson held their wedding in the home where Ms. Wilkens was stalked, beaten, terrorized, and abused. Upon information and belief, many of the other DAs in the office attended and celebrated in the former home of Ms. Wilkens. The ADAs are known to discuss the fact that they purchased “April Wilkens’ house,” and frequently discuss it with friends and colleagues.”

Wilkens’ defense said they believe DA Kunzwelier and the members of his office involved in the case proceedings have not upheld their duty of neutrality.

“It is commonly understood in practice that when a conflict of interest exists in a case which calls into question the appearance of impropriety, the court shall resolve all doubt in favor of disqualification. Mr. Kunzweiler and his office’s animus toward Ms. Wilkens clearly resolves all doubt toward disqualification,” read the motion.