In cases involving serious injury, it may be difficult to prove someone’s guilt due to the chaos of the situation. One Virginia Beach man is facing multiple charges, including firearm charges, after being accused of shooting at police officers.
The man had apparently fought with his wife at an apartment complex, allegedly injuring her and another man, and shots were fired. When the officers tried to help the injured man, authorities said, the accused starting shooting at them. Officers responded by firing back at him. He climbed out of a window and attempted to leave the scene. However, police got him to drop his gun and took him into custody.
After the man was treated for a gunshot wound to the leg, he was taken to jail. Prosecutors say that the man was intoxicated at the time. He has been charged with strangulation and use of a firearm during a felony. He also faces aggravated assault charges. He is currently in Virginia Beach city jail and has not been granted bond because prosecutors believe he may be a flight risk.
However, there are many questions still remaining in this case. The man’s wife says that he did not hurt her or strangle her on the night in question. It is also unclear whether the gunshot came from police or was self-inflicted. The officers involved have been placed on administrative duty while the matter is investigated.
Facing criminal charges does not necessarily mean that you will be found guilty. In order to prove guilt, prosecutors must show that the accused is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help a defendant understand this standard and how to highlight reasonable doubts regarding the situation in question.
Source: ABC 13 News, “No bond for man accused of shooting at Va. Beach police,” May 6, 2015
