Local Expert Weighs In On Zimmerman Verdict
By Cherri Gregg
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – A local expert weighed in on the verdict reached in the trial of George Zimmerman Saturday night.
"It does not surprise me at all that he was found not guilty," said James Funt, Chair of the Criminal Justice Section for the Philadelphia Bar Association.
READ ALSO: Local Residents React To Zimmerman Verdict
He says many factors likely lead the six female jurors to find George Zimmerman not guilty - factors like the beyond the reasonable doubt of proof, disputed facts like whose voice was heard in a 911 call, as well as investigators reluctance to arrest Zimmerman in the first place.
"Even if Zimmerman initiated the altercation, when you look at the wounds on the back of his head and the entire circumstances, did he intend for there to be a shooting or an incident of that nature - highly unlikely," said Funt.
Funt says the racially charged nature of the case, as well as extensive media coverage could cloud the judgment of many who follow the case. For those who disagree with the verdict, he says they should work to pressure lawmakers to change stand your ground laws.
