Jury selection in fatal North Carolina police shooting

Author: associated press
Published: Updated:
Florida A&M University

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) – Jury selection is beginning in the trial of a Charlotte police officer accused of fatally shooting an unarmed man who was looking for help.

Prosecutors say Randall Kerrick fatally shot 24-year-old Jonathan Ferrell, a former Florida A&M football player, on Sept. 14, 2013. Kerrick was arrested the day of the shooting. He was later indicted for voluntary manslaughter, which carries a prison sentence of up to 11 years.

Prosecutors say the shooting was a case of excessive force, while defense attorneys say Kerrick acted in self-defense.

Kerrick’s attorneys tried to get the case moved, saying extensive publicity makes it unlikely he can get a fair trial in Mecklenburg County. They say interest in the case has increased because of the national debate about race and aggressive police tactics.

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