Being charged with a serious crime can affect every aspect of your life. When the charge is murder, though, the penalties are some of the most severe. It’s important for people to remember that when charges are filed against someone, it does automatically mean the defendant is guilty. The media, however, is quick to judge early on, often making it difficult for a defendant to receive a fair trial.
According to the news, an 18-year-old man has been charged with five counts of attempted first-degree murder for allegedly shooting at two Baton Rouge Police officers at around 9:30 p.m. on April 16. The man was arrested following the incident. He was allegedly shooting at the police because they were trying to execute a narcotics search warrant at the home located on North 36th Street.
The Baton Rouge Police corporal claims that the police did not return fire at the 18-year-old. The officers were injured in the alleged attack, however, and it was reported that one was struck in the front vest by a bullet. Another officer on the scene was reportedly hit in the groin area by the fragments of a bullet as the two officers were trying to enter the home.
While their injuries weren’t fully disclosed, they were not reported as life-threatening. One of the officers is being treated for bruises, according to the story, and the other has already returned to work. Now, the 18-year-old is facing serious charges that are only compounded by the fact that he allegedly fired at police officers. The media will likely continue to report on every aspect of the case. It’s imperative that the teen receives a fair and just trial, as is guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.
Source: The Times-Picayune, “Baton Rouge man facing 5 counts of attempted first-degree murder after firing at police officers” Quincy Hodges, Apr. 17, 2014
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