Make no mistake: first-degree murder is one of the most serious criminal charges that any person can face in any state in the country. If you or anyone you know finds himself or herself facing first-degree murder charges, then it is imperative that you seek legal assistance to help you build a case for your defense as soon as possible. However, when it comes to first-degree murder charges, there are some cases that are more serious than others, and these cases should be handled with careful attention.
A man has recently been accused of killing a Louisiana police officer, and he is being charged with first-degree murder. He has plead not guilty, but if he is convicted, the state may seek the death penalty. The next hearing for the case will take place in late December, but the circumstances of the case are not currently widely available.
What little is known about this incident is that the officer in question responded to a family dispute in early August. At some point during the response, he was shot six times. A manhunt ensued the next day, at which point the current suspect was captured.
Obviously any first-degree murder charge is serious, but first-degree murder involving the death of an officer of the law is arguably even more serious. Not only are the legal penalties more significant, but it is likely that the police will pursue a conviction with a great deal of zeal. Understandably, when one of their own is killed, police officers tend to be particularly aggressive in a case.
If you are facing murder charges of any kind, it is in your best interests to speak with an attorney. If you are accused of killing an officer, it is imperative to seek legal aid to help you build a defense. No matter how the evidence may be stacked against you, you are still innocent until proven guilty. A defense attorney can help you protect your innocence and take full advantage of your rights to ensure that you are not wrongfully convicted of an offense.
Source: Bayou Buzz, “Man indicted in Shreveport, Louisiana, officer’s death pleads not guilty to murder charge,” Oct. 26, 2015