Hoo boy. There was plenty of video footage of the accused. He had the motive. When he was caught, he still had evidence on him. He had the means, the motive and the opportunity. By all means, he should be afforded a full and fair trial. However, if his lawyer is able to get the case thrown out or dismissed somehow, it’ll be a legal miracle. I honestly have no clue what his defense will be. So far it seems to be “the cops planted the evidence” which I do not think will buy him the sympathy of a jury.
I believe that CEO was a fucking scumbag, but I’d also be inclined to pass a guilty verdict (assuming his defense attorney fails to change my mind). As much as I hate what that health insurance company did, I also would hate to live in a country where vigilante justice is meted out. I would have preferred the shooter pursue health care reform in a more democratic way, as I believe that is the civilized way to enact change. I can simultaneously sympathize with the shooter and condemn him.
Certainly does look a lot like first degree murder at first sight but from what I’ve seen even the whole story about the circumstance of his apprehension seems rather odd.
Also (and yes I know it’s a long shot but still), the jury could simply refuse to indict him because they hate the victim far more than the crime.
Also (and yes I know it’s a long shot but still), the jury could simply refuse to indict him because they hate the victim far more than the crime.
This’ll be on the prosecution to try to impanel people that will follow the law instead of their hearts. The target aside, I think most people will rule harshly on murder, especially someone shot in the back.
It’s certainly rare, but it wouldn’t be the first time.