Prosecutor won't use grand jury in Trayvon Martin shooting case

04-09-2012 • http://edition.cnn.com, By the CNN Wire Staff

The grand jury, set to convene Tuesday, was "previously scheduled by the former prosecutor," said the statement from Corey.

"The decision should not be considered a factor in the final determination of the case," her office said.

Corey said the investigation into the case continues. The state attorney has maintained that a grand jury is not needed to file possible criminal charges against George Zimmerman, the neighborhood watch volunteer who killed the teen February 26.

The case has triggered a nationwide debate about Florida's "stand your ground" law -- which allows people to use deadly force anywhere they feel a reasonable threat of death or serious injury -- and race in America.

Prosecutors are trying to unravel what happened the night Martin was killed. Witnesses and attorneys for both sides have offered conflicting accounts. Two prosecutors are working to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to bring charges against Zimmerman, 28.

"We had hoped she had enough evidence without the need to convene a grand jury," said Benjamin Crump, attorney for Martin's family. "The family is trying to have patience and faith through all of this."

2 Comments in Response to Prosecutor won't use grand jury in Trayvon Martin shooting case

Comment by Rod Souza

Entered on: 4/9/2012 3:40:26 PM

As this case continues to draw national attention, where the hell is the media and especially "The Few Good Men" in this case?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5MSP48NH4U

Comment by Dennis Treybil

Entered on: 4/9/2012 11:31:43 AM

Consider the following excerpt from the Florida State Constitution:

SECTION 15. Prosecution for crime; offenses committed by children.— (a) No person shall be tried for capital crime without presentment or indictment by a grand jury, or for other felony without such presentment or indictment or an information under oath filed by the prosecuting officer of the court, except persons on active duty in the militia when tried by courts martial. As I read this, Zimmerman can be charged with other felonies without indictment. Also, based on this article, plaintiffs and the prosecutor alike seem interested only in an arrest. It will be interesting to see if demands are increased by plaintiffs and supporting activists if such an arrest is made. DC Treybil