George Zimmerman still stands accused of the shooting death of 17 year old Trayvon Martin in Sanford Florida. On Thursday Zimmerman’s lawyer announced via his website that there will be a ‘stand your ground’ hearing, based on the claim that Zimmerman killed Trayvon Martin in self defense. Via Fox News and the Associated Press:
A finding in Zimmerman’s favor would end the criminal case against him, as well as immunizing him from civil action.
“Now that the State has released the majority of their discovery, the defense asserts that there is clear support for a strong claim of self-defense. Consistent with this claim of self-defense, there will be a ‘Stand Your Ground’ hearing,” said O’Mara in a statement.
The law allows people to use deadly force, rather than retreat, if they believe their lives are in danger.
O’Mara described the hearing as a “mini-trial,” with arguments, witnesses, experts and evidence that would be included in a criminal trial, but without a jury.
Tensions continue to run high in the city of Sanford and across the nation as many believe the shooting was racially motivated.
Al Sharpton’s National Action Network has been a staunch supporter of the Martin family throughout the ordeal. At the time of this post they could not be reached for comment.
