Pharmacist who shot robber faces Murder case

(Oklahoma) An Oklahoma Pharmacist, Jerome Ersland, is out on bail today after being arrested and charged with first-degree homicide in the May 19th shooting of “would-be robber” Antwun Parker, 16.

Prosecutors said Parker was on the floor in the pharmacy, unconscious and unarmed after being shot once by the pharmacist, and then shot him five more times.

An unnamed 14-year-old boy was arrested Thursday, accused of involvement in the attempted robbery.

Ersland’s attorney says his actions came during a life-threatening crime and predicts no jury will convict him. While District Attorney David Prater said Ersland was justified in shooting Parker once in the head. But Prater said Ersland went too far when he shot Parker five more times while Parker lay unconscious.

The case will will put self-defense laws to test.  Laws that expand a citizens right to use deadly force when attacked in their homes, cars and businesses.

In my opinion, A guilty verdict in this case would put more power in the hands of those who commit violent crimes, if not encourage it.

While a “shoot first, ask questions later” mentality is dangerous, a properly trained and licensed gun owner has every right to protect himself, his property, and those in his care to any extent they can.

I see this case playing out in 2 ways, either a plea-bargain will be reached where the murder charge will be dropped to manslaughter. Or, Ersland fights the murder wrap tooth and nail, goes to trial and rolls the dice on his future.

I welcome any and all comments.