As the prosecutors began to present the case against Officer Caesar Goodson, the only Baltimore Police Officer charged with murder in the case of Freddie Gray, presiding Judge Barry Williams sternly chastised city attorneys for not turning over evidence that could exculpate the defendant.
Officer Goodson has been charged with second degree murder with a depraved heart (along with manslaughter, assault, reckless endangerment and officer misconduct) for allegedly giving Freddie Gray a rough ride 45 minute police wagon ride after his arrest which led to Gray's death. The government's key witness is Donta Allen, a convict who was a witness in the police transport with Freddie Gray.
Allen's testimony is suspect considering his checkered conviction record as well as because Allen changed his story several times. However, prosecutors did not disclose to the defense that they had met with Allen. Prosecutors thought notice was unnecessary as no new information was produced.
While Judge Williams did not throw out the case and allowed opening arguments, the Judge blasted the prosecution for violating discovery rules and threw out Allen's testimony.
It is widely believed that if Baltimore City Prosecutors fail to get a conviction in the third Freddie Gray murder trial, this may mean the end of prosecutions. Indubitably, it will mean the end of spotlight seeking Maryland State's Marilyn Mosby's (D-Baltimore) political career. Officers are also suing the city for malicious prosecution.
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