The University of Missouri community was devastated by the murder of student Jesse Valencia in 2004. Valencia was found strangled and with his throat slit in a Springfield neighborhood. Police soon uncovered that Valencia was having a secret affair with a Columbia police officer, which led to their investigation. Steven Rios was eventually found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole. Valencia's death raised questions about police misconduct, abuse of power, and LGBTQ+ safety, and his legacy continues to spark important conversations about creating a more just and equitable society.