Recently, a double shooting in Bal Harbour made headlines due to the fact that Bal Harbour is a typically safe community.
A few weeks ago, it is alleged that two men were arguing outside of a restaurant when one of the men opened fire. He struck two people and then fled.
A suspect was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Ohio, and was held pending extradition to Miami-Dade County on two counts of attempted murder.
Since a firearm was used, this man would be eligible for sentencing enhancements under Florida's 10-20-Life firearm law.
The suspect was discovered due to eyewitness reports. Apparently, he was identified.
However, in a recent and unexpected turn of events, the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office has announced that all pending charges against the suspected shooter will be dropped.
This just goes to show how unreliable eyewitness accounts can often be. Unfortunately, many people are convicted based on eyewitness testimony.
A good criminal defense attorney should always take depositions when possible to get sworn testimony from witnesses in a criminal case. Not only does this help prepare the attorney for trial, but it allows the attorney to assess the credibility of a witness prior to trial.
I am glad to hear that the State Attorney's Office is doing the right thing by dismissing the charges against this man.
Eric Matheny is a criminal defense attorney serving Miami-Dade and Broward. Call today to discuss your case.