Theodore Wafer was found guilty of 2nd degree murder, manslaughter and discharging a firearm in the commission of a felony on August 7 for the murder of 19 year old Renisha McBride. The verdict, just one day after closing arguments, sends a loud message that the jury did not struggle with reaching their verdict. While the defense said in closing argument that the case was not about race, it was everything about race and gender. Wafer, a middle aged white man, used every conceivable racial coding language during his testimony. He testified that he feared for his life as several persons might be breaking into his home, in his now changing suburban neighborhood. He testified about how he was scared hearing the thunderous pounding of his front, side and back doors with metal hitting the door and his floors vibrating. Testifying that multiple persons were attempting to break in his house, he didn’t want to cower or be a victim in his own home. And he claims he shot in self- defense. And … [Read more...] about Why Theodore Wafer was Found Guilty in McBride’s Murder
porch killing
Recapping the Renisha McBride Case
The prosecution started their opening argument saying all Renisha McBride wanted to do was go home on November 2, 2013 when she was fatally shot by Theodore Wafer on his porch. She was injured, intoxicated, perhaps disoriented and seeking help. The case is now in the hands of the jury. Until they deliberate and reach a verdict, no one will know how the case will finally conclude. In recapping the case, there are many pieces that affect a jury’s decision. And the victim in a murder case is never able to tell their side of the story. It is told through the lens of the police who investigated it, how well they did their job, the prosecutors who prepared the case for trial, and the defendant, if he/she takes the stand. The other factors are the jury racial, ethnic and gender make up, the judge’s jury instructions, the subtle biases of the jury and the demeanor of the prosecutor and defense attorneys. No one factor stands alone. In any case, the jury is a crucial … [Read more...] about Recapping the Renisha McBride Case