The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #157576   Message #3720346
Posted By: GUEST,Squeezer
01-Jul-15 - 04:16 PM
Thread Name: Why action to end Systemic Racism can't wait
Subject: RE: Why action to end Systemic Racism can't wait
Under the British legal system (as I understand it) an inquest on the deaths would be held in a coroner's court, and a decision made as to whether the deaths were lawful or not. If the decision is unlawful killing (as a result of dangerous driving) a prosecution would automatically follow. Does this resemble the procedure in Michigan?

Are there any state or national organisations which represent people of colour (I hope that's the acceptable term - defining minority groups can be something of a minefield) with enough funds to mount a legal case on behalf of the families? One line of attack could be with the aim of requiring the state judiciary to show cause as to why the police driver should NOT be prosecuted. If the responsible authority in Michigan (would that be what you call the DA?) is unable to show cause (e.g. if it can be shown that the police driver ignored guidelines, and the chase was not an emergency where another person's life was at risk), then I suppose there is prima facie evidence of wrong-doing, and the Michigan would have no choice but to put the officer on trial for dangerous driving.

Another legal case could be for a private prosecution for damages. Of course, the families don't want to make money out of the deaths and injuries to their children, but it would force the driver to be publically questioned, force the police department to release evidence, and generally force everyone - police, judiciary, news media, and the community at large - to focus on what goes on in the mind of an young man who is given a gun, a badge, and a powerful car. If he is made personally and financially responsible for these deaths and injuries, perhaps in future police drivers will think twice about ignoring their own guidelines.

Do you think there is any mileage in this?