Slain deputy family’s emotional response during Day 2 of Cassandra Smith trial

Reporter: Tiffany Rizzo Writer: Nicholas Karsen
Published: Updated:
Cassandra Smith
Cassandra Smith’s mugshot. Credit: Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office

Cassandra Smith, the woman accused of killing Charlotte County deputy Christopher Taylor, is currently on day two of her trial.

Smith, at the time of her arrest in 2022 had a blood alcohol rating of .258, more than three times the legal limit.

Opening statements for Smith’s case began at 9 a.m., Wednesday at the Charlotte County Courthouse.

During the trial, the prosecution played dashcam footage of Taylor moments before he was struck by Smith’s vehicle.

Smith’s family was present in the courtroom. The family erupted into tears, prompting them to leave the courtroom.

The court also played footage of Smith walking around someone applying CPR to Taylor.

After opening statements were completed, the prosecution brought multiple witnesses to the stand.

William and Sydney Green were driving on the road the night of the crash, claiming that they saw Smith’s car speeding past them.

Mrs. Green, while explaining the crash, was quoted seeing Taylor flying into the air and blood surrounding him.

Mr. Green proceeded to call 911 and attempted to help in the situation. Green continued to mention while walking over to Smith that she didn’t understand the gravity of the situation.

Green stated to the court that Smith was acting bubbly, detached from the situation and talking to herself.

Mr. Green finished his testimony by stating that Smith allegedly said, “I did what I was supposed to do. I pulled over for a traffic stop.”

He then claimed that Smith nonchalantly said, “I hope I didn’t kill him.”

Testimony has ended for the day and will continue tomorrow.

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