sf > wrote:

>On Thu, 12 Aug 2010 15:47:52 -0500, "Pete C." >

>> The claim that the officer in question meant to draw the tazer would be
>> supported or not by their reaction in the seconds following the
>> shooting. I don't recall the video of the shooting, but it should be
>> clear if there was a reaction of shock / horror on the officer's part
>> indicating it was really a mistake.

>I believe there was and that's why he got a lighter sentence.

The problem with the "I thought it was my Taser" defense is that
any cop could claim such a defense in any shooting. If a defendant
makes a statement that is information-free in the sense that any defendant
could make the same statement, the jurors should ignore it and should
be instructed to ignore it.

I'm guessing the Taser Corporation salesmen are now telling their
cop customers that they need to always carry a Taser so they
can use the Taser Defense.

Steve