Statistikhengst
Diamond Member
- Banned
- #1
Man Accused In Zimmerman Shooting Plans Stand Your Ground Defense
(actual source: AP)
Fascinating.
FYI, FYD.
(actual source: AP)
An attorney for a Florida man charged with shooting at George Zimmerman said Friday that he planned to use a "Stand Your Ground" defense — the same legal strategy considered but ultimately not used by lawyers for the former neighborhood watch leader who was acquitted in the fatal shooting of Trayvon Martin.
Such a defense would entitle Matthew Apperson to a hearing, ahead of his trial, during which a judge would decide if he deserves immunity from prosecution because he feared imminent death or bodily injury. Apperson was charged earlier this month with aggravated assault and battery for firing a gun into Zimmerman's car during a traffic run-in. Zimmerman had minor injuries.
Zimmerman's defense attorneys had considered asking for a "Stand Your Ground" hearing when the former neighborhood watch leader faced a second-degree murder charge for the February 2012 fatal shooting of Martin, but they instead opted to go straight to a traditional criminal trial.
A jury acquitted Zimmerman of any crime following a trial two years ago. The case sparked protests and a national debate about race relations. The U.S. Justice Department later decided not to bring a civil rights case against Zimmerman.
Fascinating.
FYI, FYD.