Former University of Cincinnati cop Ray Tensing is on trial for murder after the death of Samuel DuBose, but comments from the prosecutor may influence the proceedings.
Prosecutor Joe Deters was quoted saying that this was "without question a murder," the traffic stop was "asinine" and it was a "chicken crap" traffic stop over a missing front license plate, according to Fox News.
These comments could both undermine the prosecution's case and make it difficult to deliver a fair trial to Tensing, according to ABC News.
"His major headline-grabbing claim was that it was basically an act of vengeance for not cooperating," said Eugene O'Donnell, a professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. "But he also indicated it was done out of stupidity and for no reason. Which is it?"
This isn't the first time Deters has been in hot water for his overzealous words. The prosecutor was also criticized in an assault case during the 1990s for calling the suspects on trial "lawless thugs" and "unsalvageable."
Attorney Stewart Matthews insists that the prosecutor has publicly tried Tensing without the opportunity for a fair trial.
He went on to claim that, in Tensing's defense, he feared he would be dragged with the car as Dubose attempted to drive away.
Tensing has pleaded not guilty to the charges of murder and voluntary manslaughter.
