There has been renewed discussion of "stand your ground" legislation following the controversy over the shooting of Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old unarmed youth in Florida.
James Ferrera
SPRINGFIELD — The City Council voted 11-1 Monday to urge the state Legislature to reject a bill patterned after the “Stand Your Ground” law in Florida governing the use of deadly force.
The council, in its resolution, said that a bill sponsored by state Sen. Stephen Brewer, D-Barre, is unnecessary given that people can already use deadly force against intruders in their home “without a duty to retreat.” A state law, expanding the deadly force defense is unnecessary given existing statutes and case law, councilors said.
Council President James J. Ferrera and Councilor Bud L. Williams were the lead sponsors, in opposing Brewer’s bill. Gov. Deval Patrick has stated he would veto the bill if passed.
There has been renewed discussion of “stand your ground” legislation following the controversy over the shooting of Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old unarmed youth in Florida. George Zimmerman, arrested on a charge of second-degree murder, said he shot Martin in self-defense during a scuffle, according to news reports.
Councilor Timothy J. Rooke was the only councilor voting against the resolution, saying he fully supports Brewer’s bill allowing people to defend themselves with deadly force, if needed, to protect themselves and their families.
The Rev. Talbert W. Swan II, president of the Springfield chapter NAACP, was allowed to speak prior to the council’s vote, and urged them to oppose Brewer’s bill, saying the bill would “call for an escalation of violence as opposed to de-escalation.”
On March 31, activists conducted a 1,000 Hoodies Walk at City Hall to protest the shooting of Martin in Florida. The protest reflected that Martin was unarmed and wearing a hoodie when shot by Zimmerman.