George S
Veteran Member
In a probable cause hearing the prosecution alone presents evidence. The question is whether or not there probably is a crime. The son of a friend was not allowed to present any exculpatory evidence. Not allowed to call witnesses contradicting the prosecution. The charge was eventually dismissed. Nevertheless most locals know only of the original charge.
If the prosecutor had presented only the single fact that the fatal 2 shots were fired while the victim was horizontal. The shot prior to that was to the body from about 35 feet. (How long can a running back at full charge cover ten yards -- that is the distance of those fatal shots.)
But, no, the police are half of the Law and Order team. The prosecutor presented the case, including exculpatory evidence.
Should there have been a trial? Probably. If only to show the neutrality of prosecution of "one of their own."
Would a jury have found Wilson not guilty? Probably.
Would there have been riots at that stage? Probably. People who feel the justice system does not work have few choices.
If the prosecutor had presented only the single fact that the fatal 2 shots were fired while the victim was horizontal. The shot prior to that was to the body from about 35 feet. (How long can a running back at full charge cover ten yards -- that is the distance of those fatal shots.)
But, no, the police are half of the Law and Order team. The prosecutor presented the case, including exculpatory evidence.
Should there have been a trial? Probably. If only to show the neutrality of prosecution of "one of their own."
Would a jury have found Wilson not guilty? Probably.
Would there have been riots at that stage? Probably. People who feel the justice system does not work have few choices.