Pontiac, Michigan — In a small claims court hearing that attracted significant attention, a judge has denied both claims in a dispute involving a transgender woman and her ex-boyfriend. The case centered around the woman’s request to have her surgically removed testicles returned to her. Despite the unusual nature of the case, Judge Jeremy Bowie ruled that neither party would be awarded damages.
The petitioner, Brianna Kingsley, filed a handwritten small claims petition last August, alleging that her ex-boyfriend, William Wojciechowski, had kept her testicles in a Mason jar in his refrigerator next to the eggs. Kingsley demanded their immediate return and sought $6,500 in damages. In response, Wojciechowski filed a counterclaim for the same amount, claiming he had been humiliated by the extensive media coverage of the case.
During the hearing, Judge Bowie heard testimony from both parties and ultimately determined that it was a “wash.” He pointed out that Kingsley had already been given an opportunity to retrieve her testicles when accompanied by a sheriff’s deputy to Wojciechowski’s home. However, she failed to do so at the time. Wojciechowski claimed that he had discarded the testicles in July because they were rotting and had not been stored in a biohazard container.
When questioned about the $6,500 amount requested, Kingsley stated that the surgery to remove her testicles had cost $20,000. However, she clarified that the state had paid for the procedure due to her disability. Judge Bowie dismissed her claim, stating that she would not be unjustly enriched.
The case, which has gained international attention, highlights the complexities surrounding personal property rights and bodily autonomy. Despite the unusual circumstances, the judge’s ruling emphasized the importance of following proper procedures and seizing opportunities to retrieve personal belongings.
The dispute between Kingsley and Wojciechowski dates back to their breakup in December 2022. After the surgery, Kingsley stored her testicles in a Mason jar in the refrigerator, explaining that it was her way of dealing with trauma through comedy. The relationship deteriorated further when Wojciechowski obtained a personal protection order against Kingsley, which she later violated. This led to her incarceration and subsequent attempts to retrieve her belongings.
While some may find the case bizarre, it raises broader questions about personal property and the limits of legal recourse. Judge Bowie’s decision to deny both claims underscores the importance of adhering to legal procedures and resolving disputes in a fair and equitable manner.
The controversy surrounding this case serves as a reminder of the complexities that can arise in legal battles, regardless of their subject matter. As the case continues to attract attention, it remains to be seen whether further legal action will take place or if this peculiar dispute will finally come to an end.