As the jurors filed back into the courtroom, you could see that there was a lot of anxiety coming from both the prosecution and defense tables.
Once the jurors took their seats, the court officers told everyone that should not be any outbursts and then the court clerked asked the foreperson to rise and read their verdict.
You say you have reached a unanimous verdict? “yes”, the foreperson replied.
“What say you on the first count Murder in the Second Degree”…………….
You could hear a pin drop. Nobody moved. He pulled the verdict sheet from an envelope and unfolded it “Not Guilty”
“What say you on count 1A Manslaughter in the First Degree”
“Not Guilty”
“What say you on count 1B Manslaughter in the Second Degree?”
“Not Guilty”
“What say you on the second count, Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third degree?”
“Not Guilty”
The Court thanked the jury for its service. Mr. Carter reduced to sobs, thanked them from his seat. Attorney Al-Shabazz was seen wiping a tear. It was a good day! Counsel for Mr. Carter would later say that her faith had somewhat been restored! Justice can prevail!
We spoke exclusively with Attorney Al-Shabazz after the case was over and asked how did it feel to get your client a not guilty verdict?
It feels incredible to save a life and I am humbled to be used! I knew going into this trial it would be an uphill battle because we had to deal with a coerced confession by the police as well as an alleged eyewitness, which ultimately proved not to be the case at all.
Lastly, I would like to reiterate to all those who will read your story that they should NEVER talk to police unless there is a lawyer present.
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