Patrick Tuter Trial Closing Arguments 12/16/16

TL;DR

Police officer Patrick Wayne Tutor claims self-defense in a fatal shooting incident during a high-speed chase, but faces scrutiny regarding the justification of using deadly force.

Transcript

when and to the degree the peace officer reasonably believes the deadly force is immediately necessary to make an arrest or to prevent Escape after arrest if the use of force would have been Justified and one the officer reasonably believed the conduct for which arrest is authorized included the use or attempted use of deadly force or to the office... Read More

Key Insights

• 🚄 Officer Tutor believed he had a reasonable basis to use deadly force during the high-speed chase, as he perceived a threat of death or serious bodily injury from the suspect's actions.
• ✋ Michael Allen's reckless driving and refusal to stop created a dangerous situation that required swift action from law enforcement.
• 😒 The use of force by Officer Tutor was necessary to protect himself, fellow officers, and the public from the threat posed by Michael Allen.

Questions & Answers

Q: Was Officer Tutor justified in using deadly force during the chase?

According to the law, a police officer can use deadly force if they reasonably believe the suspect poses a threat of death or serious bodily injury to themselves or others. The officer must also believe that the arrest is immediately necessary based on the conduct of the suspect, which may include using or attempting to use deadly force.

Q: Did Michael Allen pose a threat to Officer Tutor during the chase?

Based on witness testimonies and video evidence, Michael Allen's reckless driving and refusal to stop indicated a disregard for the safety of officers and civilians. Officer Tutor, being in pursuit, reasonably perceived Allen's actions as a threat to his life and the lives of others.

Q: Did Officer Tutor have any alternative options to stop Michael Allen?

Officer Tutor had limited options to stop a dangerous and fleeing suspect. In this case, Officer Tutor chose to use deadly force when he believed it was immediately necessary to protect himself and others from Allen's continued reckless behavior.

Q: How does self-defense play into Officer Tutor's justification for using deadly force?

Officer Tutor's claim of self-defense rests on the belief that his actions were necessary to protect himself and others from the threat of death or serious bodily injury posed by Michael Allen. The law grants individuals, including police officers, the right to use force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves or others.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Officer Tutor was involved in a high-speed chase of a suspect, Michael Vincent Allen, who was driving a wanted vehicle. Officer Tutor called for backup and followed proper procedure.

• During the chase, Michael Allen's actions posed a threat to officers and civilians, driving recklessly and at high speeds. Officer Tutor believed Allen was using his vehicle as a deadly weapon.

• Video evidence shows Officer Tutor firing multiple shots at Allen's vehicle, as he felt in immediate danger. Allen was eventually stopped and arrested.