A Dallas County jury sentenced former Balch Springs police officer Roy
Oliver to 15 years in prison and a fine of $10,000 Wednesday night in
the murder of unarmed teenager Jordan Edwards.
The jury deliberated for more than five hours, starting at about 4 p.m. Wednesday after an emotional two days of testimony during the punishment phase of the trial.
The jury deliberated for more than five hours, starting at about 4 p.m. Wednesday after an emotional two days of testimony during the punishment phase of the trial.
The attorney representing the Edwards family, Daryl K. Washington,
said they would have wanted a longer sentence, but said they believe
it's a step in the right direction. "We know that there are parents all
over this country who would love to see the person who took the life of
their kid spend the next 15 years in prison," Washington said.
"This
is the beginning and we hope soon that it will be the end to all the
violence that we have. Little kids, adults should be able to look at
police officers as individuals who have taken the oath to protect and
serve."
Dallas County Prosecutor Faith Johnson said they respect
the jury's verdict. "Keep in mind, we love our police. We trust them. We
know that they are committed to making certain that the people of
Dallas County are safe and secure, so we love them and support the
police," Dallas County Prosecutor Faith Johnson said. "However, we do
not support bad apples. We want to say to people like Roy Oliver, if you
go out and murder anybody, we're committed to making certain that we
prosecute people like that."
"I want to thank the Edwards family
for their nobility, their heroism during this case. They refused to
engage in protests or any certain violent activity. They are wonderful
people who have my deepest respect," First assistant district attorney
Michael Snipes said.
Oliver's attorney, Bob Gill, said they plan to appeal the sentence. Oliver will be eligible for parole after serving seven and a half years behind bars.
Oliver's attorney, Bob Gill, said they plan to appeal the sentence. Oliver will be eligible for parole after serving seven and a half years behind bars.
You can read the full and complete story by clicking here.
Like the family I was hoping he was sentenced to more time especially since he stands a chance of getting out in 7 1/2 years, and of course if the color was the other way around the Black Police Officer would most definitely get anywhere from 25 years to life. I am happy that justice was served and I hope this does send a clear message to the bad apples.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please be respectful and mindful when leaving a comment. Any and all rude, racial, personal attacks, etc will be removed. Kindness takes you far in life.