D.A. Charges Cop in Rayshard Brooks' Shooting with Felony Murder, Death Penalty Available
Rayshard Brooks D.A. Charges Shooting Cop with Felony Murder ... Death Penalty on the Table
UPDATE
2:49 PM PT -- Rayshard's wife, Tomika Miller, just addressed the media and thanked everyone for their support. She got emotional when revealing how she heard the news of the charges.
UPDATE
UPDATE
Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms released a statement as well, saying, "It is my hope that justice will be served—not only for the family of Mr. Brooks, but for the victims and families of the other use of force cases waiting to be resolved by the District Attorney. My condolences and prayers remain with the family of Mr. Brooks, as well as the other families awaiting justice."
The former Atlanta cop who shot Rayshard Brooks in the back and killed him has now been charged with felony murder, and the cop's partner has agreed to testify against him.
Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard announced 11 charges against Garrett Rolfe, including multiple acts of aggravated assault. Howard made particular notice that Rolfe kicked Brooks while he lay dying.
Howard made it clear ... he does not believe Rolfe feared for his life in any way, shape or form. Howard noted Brooks had been cordial, cooperative and calm for more than 41 minutes. The D.A. said Rolfe was not motivated by fear but rather "another type of emotion." Howard didn't specifically say which emotion, but did say you can hear Rolfe right after he shot Brooks say, "I got him."
It's especially significant the other cop, Devin Brosnan, is now cooperating with the D.A.'s investigation.
Howard has charged Brosnan with aggravated assault -- he's on video stepping on Brooks' shoulder. He's also been charged with failure to render timely aid. He could face more than 20 years in prison, but it's almost certain he'll get way less for cooperating.
Video of the incident shows Brooks was shot by Rolfe during a chase in a Wendy's parking lot after Brooks had obtained one of the officer's Tasers and was attempting to flee arrest following a failed breathalyzer test.
This is a sea change to the extent prosecutors have now sent a message to cops they don't have to blindly stand by colleagues who cross the line.
Howard said his office talked to multiple witnesses and reviewed a number of videos and other physical evidence before reaching the decision to charge them.
The D.A. is recommending a $50,000 bond for Brosnan and no bond at all for Rolfe. Both men have until Thursday night to surrender.
Originally Published -- 6/17 11:30 AM PT
