New Orleans police go on trial over Katrina shooting

[malaise]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-13938349
<snip>
Five police officers charged over a fatal shooting in the chaotic aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in August 2005 have gone on trial in New Orleans.

Two unarmed residents were killed and four others wounded in the incident on the Danziger Bridge.

Prosecutors say the officers decided to "shoot first and ask questions later" and then tried to cover up the crimes.

Defence lawyers say their clients feared for their lives and were justified in using deadly force.

Prosecutor Bobbi Bernstein said police plotted to plant a gun, fabricate witnesses and falsify reports to cover up what they had done.
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About time!

[PuraVidaDreamin]

1. 6 years later? LOVE our justice system.

:eyes:

[Selatius]

2. There could be a riot in New Orleans if the officers are acquitted. That's my fear.

Many people are still hurting in this part of the country. The Great Recession did not help matters at all. Despair can quickly transform into rage in a heartbeat given the right catalyst.

[malaise]

5. Agreed

This will open wounds

[Tommy_Carcetti]

3. Anyone here watch Treme?

One of the storylines this season appears to have been inspired by this incident.

[aikoaiko]

4. Hopefully the truth will lead to justice.