Fullerton Police Officers were acquitted today in the murder trial that resulted from the fatal beating of 37 year-old Kelly Thomas, a local homeless man. Former Cpl. Jay Cicinelli was charged with involuntary manslaughter and excessive force, and former Fullerton Officer Manuel Ramos was charged with second degree murder and involuntary manslaughter. Ramos’s attorney, John Barnett argued that Thomas had a violent past and that his death could have been caused by heart problems linked to prior drug abuse.
District Attorney Tony Rackauckas tried the case himself and indicated he would no longer pursue charges against the third officer that was previously charged in this case.
The FBI is still examining the evidence in this case to determine whether federal charges can be brought against the police officers.
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I find it shocking that the police officers were acquitted but then other people I’ve spoken with believe the right result was reached. Truth, like justice, is in the eye of the beholder.