7 yr old Aiyanna Jones accidentally shot and killed by cop

[Pene784]

DETROIT -- A 7-year-old girl has died after being shot by a Detroit police officer who was searching a home for a homicide suspect.

Detroit police spokesman John Roach says officers with the department's Special Response Team went into the home about 12:45 a.m. Sunday with a warrant to look for a suspect in a Friday homicide.

Roach says an officer "had an encounter" with someone in the home as he entered and his weapon fired. Roach says other details about the situation are not yet clear.

The bullet struck and killed 7-year-old Aiyanna Jones.

Police say the suspect they were searching for was arrested.


So freaking sad! Not much available on this yet.

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2010/05/16/year-old-girl-shot-killed-police-search-detroit-home/

[Pete Bondurant]

I say again....who is running this city?

[Abroad]

his weapon fired

We are blaming inanimate objects for human errors now? :dong:

[Whisper]

Another sign Detroits going back downhill
This 7 yr old was sleeping on grandmas couch lastnight police raided it looking for someone wanted from a previous murder(wasnt there)

SHE WAS SLEEPING ON GRANMAS COUCH,DETROIT POLICE SHOT AND KILLED HER!!
I DONT CARE WHAT THE FUCKING CIRCUMSTANCES WERE THIS IS WRONG AND CITYS IN FUCKING FLIP OUT MODE


Aiyana Jones: 7-Year Old Shot and Killed in Detroit Police Raid
Profound sorrow" was expressed by police in Detroit, Michigan on Sunday after the fatal shooting of 7-year old Aiyana Jones. The little girl was killed by police executing a search warrant during a homicide investigation. Assistant Police Chief Ralph Godbee gave a statement in which he said, "This is any parent's worst nightmare. It also is any police officer's worst nightmare. And today, it is all too real."The warrant was being executed at 12:40 a.m. Sunday morning on the east side of Detroit. Police were searching for the suspect in the shooting death of 17-year old Jarean Blake, and believed he was hiding at the home. Early reports are saying that the Detroit Police Special Response Team came into the house and announced themselves as police.

"As is common in these types of situations, the officers deployed a distractionary device commonly known as a flash bang," the Assistant Chief said. "The purpose of the device is to temporarily disorient occupants of the house to make it easier for officers to safely gain control of anyone inside and secure the premise."

After entering into the home, officers encountered a 46-year old female in the front room. What happened from that point on is the subject of an ongoing investigation.

"At about this time, the officer's weapon discharged one round which, tragically, struck 7-year-old Aiyana Stanley Jones in the neck/head area," said Godbee.
Aiyana was immediately taken to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Her father, Charles Jones, told CNN affiliate WDIV, "She was sleeping and they came in the door shooting and throwing flash grenades ... burned my baby up and shot her, killed her."
Jones claims that officers were at the wrong house. But Godbee said that the suspect in Blake's death was found and arrested at the home. They also found a vehicle and moped matching the description of those used in Blake's shooting. Some witnesses are saying they warned the police that there were children inside the home, pointing to toys in the front yard.

"Because of the ruthless and violent nature of the suspect in this case, it was determined that it would be in the best interest of public safety to execute the search warrant as soon as possible and detain the suspect ... while we sought a murder warrant," Godbee said.
There isn't much to say about this terrible tragedy that we aren't already thinking. It's hard to presume that the officers were doing something unethical or illegal, especially if the suspect was in the home with the children. At the same time, I am hopeful that the Detroit police will review their procedures to find better ways to protect children and citizens when they are confronted with dangerous situations. If officers were made aware that children were in harm's way, then apprehending the suspect should have taken a back seat to protecting the kids in that house.

[...]http://www.bvblackspin.com/2010/05/16/aiyana-jones-7-year-old-shot-and-killed-in-detroit-police-raid/
http://i43.tinypic.com/153b4m8.jpg
Rest In Peace Aiyana

[Pene784]

http://i41.tinypic.com/2ahtttc.jpg

7 year old Aiyanna Jones.

[Pene784]

"Profound sorrow" was expressed by police in Detroit, Michigan on Sunday after the fatal shooting of 7-year old Aiyana Jones. The little girl was killed by police executing a search warrant during a homicide investigation. Assistant Police Chief Ralph Godbee gave a statement in which he said, "This is any parent's worst nightmare. It also is any police officer's worst nightmare. And today, it is all too real."The warrant was being executed at 12:40 a.m. Sunday morning on the east side of Detroit. Police were searching for the suspect in the shooting death of 17-year old Jarean Blake, and believed he was hiding at the home. Early reports are saying that the Detroit Police Special Response Team came into the house and announced themselves as police.

"As is common in these types of situations, the officers deployed a distractionary device commonly known as a flash bang," the Assistant Chief said. "The purpose of the device is to temporarily disorient occupants of the house to make it easier for officers to safely gain control of anyone inside and secure the premise."

After entering into the home, officers encountered a 46-year old female in the front room. What happened from that point on is the subject of an ongoing investigation.

"At about this time, the officer's weapon discharged one round which, tragically, struck 7-year-old Aiyana Stanley Jones in the neck/head area," said Godbee.

Aiyana was immediately taken to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Her father, Charles Jones, told CNN affiliate WDIV, "She was sleeping and they came in the door shooting and throwing flash grenades ... burned my baby up and shot her, killed her."

Jones claims that officers were at the wrong house. But Godbee said that the suspect in Blake's death was found and arrested at the home. They also found a vehicle and moped matching the description of those used in Blake's shooting. Some witnesses are saying they warned the police that there were children inside the home, pointing to toys in the front yard.

"Because of the ruthless and violent nature of the suspect in this case, it was determined that it would be in the best interest of public safety to execute the search warrant as soon as possible and detain the suspect ... while we sought a murder warrant," Godbee said.

There isn't much to say about this terrible tragedy that we aren't already thinking. It's hard to presume that the officers were doing something unethical or illegal, especially if the suspect was in the home with the children. At the same time, I am hopeful that the Detroit police will review their procedures to find better ways to protect children and citizens when they are confronted with dangerous situations. If officers were made aware that children were in harm's way, then apprehending the suspect should have taken a back seat to protecting the kids in that house.

I am sure that the officer responsible for the shooting feels terrible for taking this child's life. My father, who was a police officer for 25-years, said that there is a tremendous amount of emotional devastation which comes from being involved in a police shooting, even in cases where it is justified. In this case, the shooting was clearly unjustified, but appears to have been accidental. May the truth be uncovered and may little Aiyana rest in peace.

http://www.bvblackspin.com/2010/05/16/aiyana-jones-7-year-old-shot-and-killed-in-detroit-police-raid/

[sheevaa]

That poor little girl. It's terrible that she had to pay for the poor decisions of the the police AND her parents. RIP Aiyanna Jones.

[Silvahalo]

http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/i/tim//2010/05/17/aiyanajones_1_370x278.jpg
(photobucket not working?!)

This is really sick. An over zealous police operation due to rolling camera's? wow, all for the glitz of TV. Is that worth a child's life? hardly. Footage will tell the truth, try to sweep that under the rug. Rest in peace sweet Aiyana Jones.

DETROIT (CBS/AP) (http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-20005157-504083.html) A lawyer for the family of 7-year-old Aiyana Jones, who was shot and killed during a police raid at their Detroit home Sunday morning, believes the police operation was flawed and heavily influenced by camera crews who were filming the raid for A&E's crime show "The First 48," according to a published report.

Aiyana was fatally shot early Sunday morning during a raid targeting a homicide suspect, when police say an officer's gun discharged and struck the sleeping girl in the neck.

[...]
Detroit police spokesman John Roach confirms that the raid and attempted arrest of a homicide suspect at the two-unit house was being videotaped for an episode of the reality crime-show "The First 48." Roach said investigators are going through the footage to determine what happened, reports The Detroit News.

The Assistant Chief of the Detroit Police Ralph Godbee would not comment on newspaper reports that neighbors told police there were children in the house and showed them toys in the front yard before they threw a flash grenade through the window of the house.

[...]
Even though a no-knock search warrant allowed police to search both apartments, Mitchell told The Detroit News the police "were excited; they were on TV...They didn't have to throw a grenade through the front window when they knew there were children in there."

We're not indicating the officer's actions were intentional," Mitchell told The Detroit News. "We know it was an accident, but the method that they used in executing the search warrant was flawed. The family understands that the officer is not a monster. He didn't intentionally shoot a 7-year-old girl."



Attorney Geoffrey Fieger said he watched three or four minutes of video that showed police fired into the home after lobbing a flash grenade through the window. He said this contradicts the police department's story, which was that the officer's gun discharged during a struggle or collision inside the home with the girl's grandmother.

"There is no question about what happened because it's in the videotape," Fieger said. "It's not an accident. (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/05/17/aiyana-jones-7-year-old-s_n_578246.html) It's not a mistake. There was no altercation.

"The gun was fired before anyone goes through the door. There are lights all over, like it's a television set."

In another article that I can't find at the moment, indicates little Aiyana was not only shot but burned extensively. The father goes on to say, he saw the light leave his daughters eyes. My deepest sympathies to father and family.

[Whisper]

Silva I just watched the live briefing by Geff as hes called (thats what they said on his interview lol)but the cops are fucked,
Not only is there video hes pissed b.c the cops wont say who shot her and that gives them a upper hand of deciding to lie and just name a person down the road.
Really fucked up situation

[Whisper]

Well I finally found out how they had video
That show on A & E "The First 48"
Is in Detroit doing a show on Detroits violence and had a crew there videoing it and thats "Geoffs" evidence
Also Just came on news and he said the cops "removed her body right AWAY AND NOT IN A WAY YOU WOULD EXPECT THEM TO REMOVE A BODY LET ALONE A CHLDS BODY"
Heres a link to more new info
They are really screwed,I honestly believe some cops that showed werent aware that The First 48 were filming there
Also cops are saying that the guy they were looking for to charge with murder was found there in that unit,he wasnt its a duplex or quadplex and he was arrested in another unit not where Aiyana was murdered by cops.http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/dpp/news/local/aiyanna-jones-family-meets-with-fieger-20100517-ms


DETROIT - A family in Detroit mourns the loss of a seven-year-old girl accidentally shot and killed by police during a raid. The death of Aiyanna Jones is making national headlines, and there are currently many questions. How could something like this happen? What went on inside an east side Detroit home early Sunday morning?

Relatives of Aiyanna met with attorney Geoffrey Fieger on Monday and re-created the scene for his investigators. The girl was sleeping on a couch around 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 16 when officers with the Detroit Police Special Response Team threw a flash grenade through the window and an officer went inside, allegedly scuffled with her grandmother and then his gun went off. Aiyanna was hit in the neck.

Police were there looking for 34-year-old Chauncey Owens, suspected but not yet charged in the shooting death of 17-year-old Jerean Blake on Friday. Owens is the fiancee of Aiyanna's aunt, Lakrystal Sanders. He was arrested in the upstairs flat.
[...]
"We need an independent eye so, that from a community confidence standpoint, whatever findings are turned over to the prosecutor the community can have confidence that this was an independent investigation," he said.
[,,,]
The television show "The First 48" on A&E had been on scene with homicide investigators at Friday's shooting. "The First 48" videographers were also at the scene at the east side Detroit home. Detroit Police have given "The First 48" access to their investigations for several seasons. There is no financial component to the deal, and Detroit Police say their videographers did not go inside the flat and had no impact on their operation.
"'The First 48,' they were there. We're in the process of acquiring the footage so we can assess it, but we don't have that concern at this time," Godbee said.
The Coalition Against Police Brutality demonstrated outside an event where Attorney General Eric Holder was speaking, hoping to get the attention of the federal government.
"We want him to hear us. We want him to hear the pain of the people. We want him to hear about the young girl that was killed," said Ron Scott with the Detroit Coalition Against Police Brutality.
We understand the officer involved in this shooting is a 14 year veteran and has been on the Special Response Team for about six or seven years. He was involved in a police shooting one other time. It involved a barricaded gunman. That person fired at police and they returned fire. He was cleared of any wrongdoing in that case.
Meanwhile, Aiyanna's family has decided to take legal action against the Detroit Police Department. Their attorney, Geoffrey Fieger, says he has seen video of the raid and it goes against what police say happened Sunday morning.
This is what police say happened between the officer and the girl's grandmother: "Exactly what happened next is a matter still under investigation, but it appears the officer and the woman had some level of physical contact," said Godbee.

"That statement is a complete and utter falsehood," said Fieger.The attorney is armed with at least two lawsuits that will be unveiled Tuesday and says he saw video tape from an unnamed source that shows a flash-bang grenade-type device was thrown into a window.
"And then within milliseconds of throwing that, firing a shot from outside the home while the Special Response Team was on the porch," Fieger said.The bullet that killed Aiyanna, Fieger says, was fired before officers entered the home according to the video he saw. His case says there is a cover up by the Detroit Police Department.
Fieger also says the tape shows Aiyanna's body being removed by officers quickly.

"You see her being carried out by one officer, and it's not like she's a human being. She's out of that house faster than you would have expected," said Fieger.
Detroit Police late Monday said if Fieger does have video evidence, he should pass it along to the Michigan State Police for their investigation. Meanwhile, he is asking the department to tell what happened and leave the grandmother out of it.
"I would like the disclosure of how and why police officers came together in an attempt to blame a grandmother, who had nothing to do with anything for the death of a little girl," Fieger said.
So, there will be two lawsuits, one state and one federal, coming from Fieger's office against the police department. There will also be a lawsuit from the grandmother for being arrested on that night.
The family will be at Fieger's Southfield office Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. where they will be holding a news conference with their lawyer talking about Aiyanna and her untimely death.http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/dpp/news/local/aiyanna-jones-family-meets-with-fieger-20100517-ms


My guess is the news crew from The First 48 intentionally handed the tape over to lawyer instead of police b/c they saw what happened
saw them take her body out like she was a bag of garbage and had the sense to see a police cover up and thats what happened until cops found out Fieger had the tape and now are back tracking!

[Dakota Valkyrie]

The father of a 7-year-old girl who was killed by Detroit police during a raid that was filmed by a television production crew sued A&E Television network today in U.S. District Court in Detroit.

The lawsuit charges that the network and a production crew filming for "The First 48" cable television series were responsible for the May 16 death of Aiyana Stanley-Jones, who was shot in the head during the raid.
[...]

The suit seeks in excess of $75,000.

The plaintiffs in the suit include the girl's father, Charles Jones, the personal representative of her estate, and her mother, Dominika Stanley and grandmother Aiyanna Stanley-Jones.

The suit said that before the raid, there were discussions about camera placement and "the desire to create 'a good show' and/or to create 'good video footage.' "

"The defendants knew or should have known that by acting in concert with the Detroit Police and filming live police it would lead to tragedies such as the one in this case," the suit said.
http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20101214/NEWS01/12140342/Family-of-Detroit-girl-killed-in-police-raid-suing-A-E-network

[misssmartypants]

Those idiots didnt even give a thought about that house was divided into apts. Sure, they tried to say, well, their suspect was arrested at the house, but didnt give the full info about him being in another apt. in the house. Not a different room as they were trying to lead others to believe. There were toys in that front yard. They used a flash bomb. With kids in that lower apt. Burned little Aiyanna and shot her dead. Did they even annouce that they were the police before going all rambo? No. They stated it was after they entered the house, which of course was after the flashbomb and shooting. I'm still shocked about this case. Whats really terrible is that these actions hurt the credibility of police officers who are doing their job well, and want to help people.

[walkingeagle]

This case is disgusting on so many levels, it's hard to begin. This whole "Showtime Syndrome" thing with depts. across the country isa showing a lot of flaws. The flash bang seems to be thrown in for drama, more than effect. Then we have Mr. Boogerhook on the BANG switch throwing lead through the door and claiming that granny was fighting him for his weapon.

I'm guessing that the lawyer for the family had to file an FOIA to get the tape, and that was likely in the PDs possession the whole time. I'll not even get into the treatment of this little victim after they realized what they had done.

[Pete Bondurant]

She probably would have grown up to become a criminal, or at least give birth to one, or more....so....this officer simply committed an act of preventative justice.

[walkingeagle]

Must be that proactive policing I hear about!

[Athena]

The flash bang seems to be thrown in for drama, more than effect.

Actually, at least in Seattle (but in most places that I'm aware of), flash-bang grenades are standard operating procedure for raids. It's intended to stun people to prevent conflict and the destruction of evidence.

But I do agree that combining media with live police work is bad jujus. Only a matter of time before the pressure of demand for high ratings begins to affect the police work.

...not that it takes interference to fuck up raids like this. There are hundreds if not thousands of botched raids across the nation every year, and it's not at all uncommon for innocents to get injured. Bad recon. The cops focus to heavily on the suspect that may be in the house and don't collect enough info on who else may be there and innocent.

[walkingeagle]

I see these things on a daily basis and wonder why it continues without correction. I do have to disagree that flash bangs are used to preserve evidence, but then, I'm not in your area. Maybe I just haven't seen anything about that there. In cases like this one it would seem to be safer and more practical to wait for this person to leave the residence, then do the take down. That in itself is a double-edged sword, because they couldn't justify all these no-knock entries and all the trinkets they like to carry. And then they have a budget to justify and attempt to increase on a regular basis.

[Whisper]

This case is disgusting on so many levels, it's hard to begin. This whole "Showtime Syndrome" thing with depts. across the country isa showing a lot of flaws. The flash bang seems to be thrown in for drama, more than effect. Then we have Mr. Boogerhook on the BANG switch throwing lead through the door and claiming that granny was fighting him for his weapon.

I'm guessing that the lawyer for the family had to file an FOIA to get the tape, and that was likely in the PDs possession the whole time. I'll not even get into the treatment of this little victim after they realized what they had done.

Actually he didnt have to go through them
The television show gave the the tape to him or to another safe person(I cant remember exactly right now,this is right by me all over the news again)
But they didnt want to give to the police dept b/c they were afraid it would be" lost" or destroyed
So it was goven straught to the layer or a safe person freely

[walkingeagle]

If that is a fact, I commend the staff and cameramen for this. I recall when this case came up, the lawyer said he had a tape, just never said his source was the camera crew. IIRC, he claimed it was from an independent source.

[Hellsbells]

Trial starts today


DETROIT -- The murder trial for a man whose arrest also resulted in the death of a 7-year-old girl is scheduled to begin Monday.

Chauncey Owens is charged with first-degree murder in the May 14, 2010 shooting death of 17-year-old Je'rean Blake.

Detroit police say an officer's gun accidentally discharged after he was bumped or jostled by the girl's grandmother.

The Wayne County prosecutor's office is deciding whether to file charges in the girl's death after getting a report from police last month.http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/27500721/detail.html

[badfish76]

Any news on what's up with the law suit and the trigger happy "officer"?

That was a beautiful little girl, with a big ol' dimple and plenty of sass to go around. Her family must have been devastated!

It really pisses me off that someone that should have known better jumped the gun and killed her for show more or less. That officer damn well knew better but I think that he wanted to look like some kind of badass for the T.V. crew.

Keep us updated!

[princessgrandma]

I wasn't around when this one was first posted, so I'm glad it's come back up.


his weapon fired

I call major bullshit. Guns don't fire themselves. The cops got all hyped up b/c the cameras were there and were probably falling all over each other.

This little one didn't have to die, didn't even have to be shot. I truly hope the cop responsible is dealt with and that he has to do time for this. It's an outrage. Cops gone wild.

[Whisper]

Detroit Officer Charged In Death Of Aiyana Jones
7-Year-Old During Police Raid On May 16, 2010

DETROIT -- A Detroit police officer was charged Tuesday in the death of a 7-year-old girl who was shot during a raid on her home.

Officer Joseph Weekley was charged in Wayne County Circuit Court with involuntary manslaughter and careless discharge of a firearm.

A not-guilty plea was entered for Weekley, a member of the Detroit Police Special Response Team.

Aiyana Stanley-Jones was killed May 16, 2010, after officers searching for a murder suspect lobbed a flash grenade through a window and stormed into her family's first-floor flat. Police had said she was sleeping on the couch when she was shot in the head after Weekley's gun fired accidentally.

A film crew with the A&E Network's "First 48" crime reality cable TV show was shadowing Detroit police on the raid.

High-profile attorney Geoffrey Fieger has filed at least one wrongful death lawsuit.

Michigan State Police conducted a nine-month investigation and turned it over to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office in March.

The focus of the raid was Chauncey Owens, the fiance of Aiyana's aunt. Owens was wanted in the May 14, 2010, shooting death of 17-year-old Je'rean Blake outside a nearby convenience store.
[...]http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/29385641/detail.html

[TearCollector]

Now I worry that the cop is going to get off w/no repercussions. I'm glad that the TV crew was decent enough to hand over that tape. Makes me wonder how many cases are out there where the cops are at fault, but it's their word against against the accuser.

What do you all think the punishment should be?

[Whisper]

Now I worry that the cop is going to get off w/no repercussions. I'm glad that the TV crew was decent enough to hand over that tape. Makes me wonder how many cases are out there where the cops are at fault, but it's their word against against the accuser.

What do you all think the punishment should be?
Theres a BIG blowout happening right now over this because Kim Worthy did a "secret grand jury" to get to this point also charged are Aiyannas dad,and the producer of the reality show that was filming
but Im waiting for updates b.c they havent posted them yet
The producer "knowingly put people in danger filming during the raid"

[Whisper]

The cop wont walk,they are cracking right down on cops there,
a whole police dept and wives were arrested last week(Farmington Hills I believe) but a sub of Detroit
They are cleaning out the riff raff and trying to carry on and clean the city up

[Whisper]

DETROIT (WXYZ) - BREAKING: Detroit Police Officer Joseph Weekley has been charged with Manslaughter and Discharge of a Weapon Causing Death in connection with the fatal shooting of 7-year-old Aiyana Jones.

A court proceeding was held Tuesday afternoon.

Aiyana Jones was shot in the neck last May by a Detroit Police Officer during a police raid on the duplex where she lived.

Immediately after the court proceeding Tuesday, Prosecutor Kym L. Worthy held a news conference outside the courtroom. She also announced charges against Aiyana Jones' father - Charles Jones - who is facing mutiple charges including First Degree Murder and Felony Possession in connection with the death of Je'rean Blake, a 17-year-old student of Southeastern High School.

The teen was shot and killed on May 14 at Mack and St. Jean after an argument with a man later identified as Chauncey Owens. Prosecutors say Jones aided Chauncey Owens - who already pleaded guilty in Blake's murder.

On May 16, 2010, the Detroit Police Department and Special Response team raided Aiyana Jones' home in an attempt to find Owens. The Special Response Team used a "flash bang" diversionary device in the living room of the duplex. Officer Joseph Weekley fired his weapon. Seven-year-old Aiyana Jones was struck and killed.

A field producer for the television series "The First 48" has also been charged in connection with the case. Allison Howard, 42, is facing Perjury and Obstruction of Justice charges. Howard was on the scene of the shooting where Aiyana was killed. She reportedly had control over the video that eventually became crucial in the case. She is accused of committing perjury at an investigative subpoena hearing in the investigation into Aiyana Jones' death.

The Michigan State Police conducted a 9-month investigation into Aiyana Jones' death and turned it over to the Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy.

“In cases that generate extreme interest, people always want a quick investigation, and a quick announcement of changes. I will never rush to judgment. I am interested in being thorough and doing the right thing,” said Prosecutor Worthy. “This has been a long process and we had to turn to a one man grand jury when our normal tools failed to ensure an impartial process with a fair result. This case will be tried by Robert Moran, WCPO Chief of Special Investigations. It will go straight to circuit court without a preliminary examination because of the indictment. By statute I am prohibited from speaking about the grand jury proceedings. The full details will be presented in a court of law.”

The Wayne County Prosecutor's Office issued the following press release:
Background Information
Southeastern High School student Je’rean Blake, 17, of Detroit was shot and killed on Friday, May 14, 2010 at Mack and St. Jean after an argument with a man later identified as Chauncey Owens, 35 of Detroit. On May 16, 2010, shortly after midnight, the Detroit Police Department (DPD) Homicide Section and Special Response Team (SRT) attempted to execute a search warrant for homicide suspect Owens at a duplex in the 4000 block of Lillibridge in Detroit. It is alleged that SRT members forced open the door and used a “flash bang” diversionary device in the living room of the lower flat of the residence. It is further alleged that upon entry, SRT Officer Joseph Weekly, 35, immediately fired his weapon, striking and killing Aiyana Stanley- Jones, 7, of Detroit.

Allison Howard, 42, of Brooklyn, New York was at the scene of the shooting as a director of photography employed by IT Productions. She was the principal photographer and also a field producer for the television series, “The First 48.” Howard is alleged to have had control over the video footage that became crucial evidence in the homicide investigation of Aiyana Stanley-Jones. On or about May 21, 2010, Howard is alleged to have committed perjury at an investigative subpoena hearing and obstruction of justice during the investigation into the death of Aiyana Stanley- Jones.
Petition for One Man Grand Jury

On May 17, 2010, Prosecutor Kym L. Worthy asked for an outside agency to investigate the facts surrounding the fatal shooting death of Aiyana Stanley-Jones. The Michigan State Police (MSP) agreed to conduct an independent investigation into the matter. During the course of the MSP investigation, the WCPO assisted MSP and placed Allison Howard under oath during an investigative subpoena in May, 2010. In March, 2011 the results of the 9 month investigation were turned over to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office (WCPO). In every case involving a local police officer, the WCPO conducts an independent investigation prior to making a charging decision; this investigation began in March, 2011.

Early on in the WCPO investigation, challenges arose in obtaining witness testimony, turning over evidence, and maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of the investigation. Because of the need to conduct a thorough and unhampered investigation

of this important case, the WCPO petitioned the Wayne County Third Circuit Court to convene a one man grand jury under MCLA 767.3. (See Attachment A - Summary of the One Man Grand Jury)


Indictments of Police Officer Joseph Weekly and Allison Howard Unsealed by the Court.
Today the indictments from the one man grand jury have been unsealed and placed in the court file. Police Officer Joseph Weekly has been indicted on charges of Involuntary Manslaughter (15 years maximum penalty) and Careless and Reckless Discharge-Death Resulting (2 year maximum penalty) in connection with the May 16, 2011 death of Aiyana Stanley-Jones.

Allison Howard has been indicted on charges of Perjury during an Investigative Subpoena (15 year maximum penalty) and Obstruction of Justice (5 year maximum penalty) in connection with her actions during the course of the investigation into the death of Aiyana Stanley-Jones.

Under the grand jury statute, defendants are arraigned in Circuit Court and proceed immediately to trial without a preliminary examination.

“In cases that generate extreme interest, people always want a quick investigation, and a quick announcement of changes. I will never rush to judgment. I am interested in being thorough and doing the right thing,” said Prosecutor Worthy. “This has been a long process and we had to turn to a one man grand jury when our normal tools failed to ensure an impartial process with a fair result. This case will be tried by Robert Moran, WCPO Chief of Special Investigations. It will go straight to circuit court without a preliminary examination because of the indictment. By statute I am prohibited from speaking about the grand jury proceedings. The full details will be presented in a court of law.”


Charles Jones Charged in Homicide of Jerean Blake
Prosecutor Kym L. Worthy has charged the father of Aiyana Jones, Charles Jones, 26, of Detroit in connection with the May 14, 2010 death of Je’rean Blake. The fatal shooting occurred on Mack and St. Jean after an argument with Chauncey Owens outside a party store at approximately 2:45 p.m. It is alleged that, after the argument, Jones accompanied Owens to the scene of the shooting and aided, abetted, and encouraged Owens during the murder of Blake. He has been charged with First Degree Murder (Mandatory Life with out Parole), Felon in Possession of a Firearm (5 year maximum penalty), Felony Firearm ( 2 year mandatory consecutive sentence), Habitual 4thOffender ( Sentence can be enhanced to a Life Sentence) and Perjury at a Court Proceeding (15 years maximum penalty). Jones is expected to be arraigned on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 in the 36th District Court for the City of Detroit at 1:30 p.m.

Chauncey Owens was charged with First Degree Murder last year in connection with the death of Je’rean Blake in 2010. On April 11, 2011 before Judge Richard Skutt, Mr. Owens entered a guilty plea to the reduced charge of Second Degree Murder with a 28 year sentence agreement and a two-year mandatory consecutive sentence for Felony Firearm. [...] http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/the--fatal-shooting-of-7-year-old-aiyana-stanley-jones-shocked-detroit.-now%2C-the-case-heads-to-court#ixzz1Zr1QsHrb
http://i55.tinypic.com/x29kwl.jpg
Detroit Police Officer Joseph Weekley

[VXIII]

Wow, thats kind of weird to wait so long to file charges on this guy and coincidental too, Im just not buying it due to the past lies and coverups by Detroit PD, I wouldnt put anything past them now...I was unable to find the video footage shot by 48 hrs, does anyone still have a link for it?

[TearCollector]

This article that I came across is pretty much what Whisperswing posted. I just wanted to add something that really bothered me.



"We respect the legal process regarding this tragic incident," Mayor Dave Bing said in a statement. "Our condolences remain with all affected by this tragedy. On behalf of Chief (Ralph) Godbee and all of the members of the Detroit Police Department, we must use this difficult moment to continue bringing our community and Police Department together."

But Officer Ronald Griffin, a 15-year veteran, said his fellow officers are "furious" at Worthy.


"Police are wondering what side of the badge she's on," he said.


"There's no way Weekley should have been charged. It's one thing to stand on the sideline and Monday morning quarterback, but it's not until you get into the game you see how fast things can happen. This could possibly be a huge morale killer."

[krissytan]

So I wonder what Officer Griffin would say if it was HIS daughter that the cops shot. Sure, it was an accident, but that officer was just totally careless.

[princessgrandma]

Better to be a morale killer than a child killer.

I can't figure out why the photographer/video person would commit perjury. What was in it for her? Did someone get to her?

[VXIII]

Detroit–On April 11, headlines in Detroit’s daily media trumpeted, “Guilty plea fingers Aiyana Stanley-Jones’ dad” (Detroit Free Press) and “Suspect promises to testify against Aiyana’s father” (Detroit News). Mildred Gaddis and other local talk show hosts hurried to their mikes to blame Aiyana’s family for the death of the seven-year-old child, killed by Detroit police last year during a military-style police assault.


Chauncey Owens during earlier court hearing
Chauncey Owens, 32, pled guilty that day to second-degree murder in the death of Je’Rean Blake, 17. Police had said they were searching for Owens when they lobbed an incendiary grenade through the living room window of Aiyana’s home in an impoverished east side neighborhood, and shot her to death on May 16, 2010.

The Jones’ family’s attorney Geoffrey Fieger said during a press conference after her death that police surveilling the house saw Owens leave the premises about 6 p.m. May 15, and could have arrested him then. Fieger contends in a lawsuit that police deliberately waited to set up a scene for the A&E program “48 Hours” before entering the home at 12:30 a.m. May 16.


Chauncey Nobles and Lyvonne Cargill, parents of 17-year-old Je'Rean Blake, at his funeral
“There are a lot of young people out there getting killed,” Je’Rean’s mother Lyvonne Cargill told this reporter on July 6 that year. “Both Je’Rean and Aiyana are up there in heaven looking down and asking, ‘Why did this happen?’ We gotta help our kids. They want jobs. They don’t have any recreation centers, nothing to do with their lives. I want to get a foundation set up to build a recreation center in Je’Rean’s name.”

Cargill was being interviewed about a police assault that occurred during a memorial picnic on Je’Rean’s June 17 birthday. She said white officers beat and shot at Black youths who were cleaning up afterwards (click on http://michigancitizen.com/mother-of-slain-teen-claims-police-brutality-p8783-1.htm to read story).


Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy being interviewed by Mildred Gaddis
But on April 11, Gaddis and others featured Cargill on their shows, encouraging her to join in the media-generated hysteria blaming Charles Jones for the death of his child, and essentially exonerating the police.

There is, however, absolutely no documentation indicating that Owens or anyone else said Charles Jones gave him the gun that killed Blake. NONE.

It does not exist in Owens’ written plea deal, in statements he gave the police, or in interviews court-appointed psychiatrists conducted with him, which VOD reviewed in Owens’ court file. No witnesses included on a police investigator’s list in the file make the claim either.


Roland Lawrence in front of Jones' family's former residence at 4054 Lillibridge, on the first anniversary of Aiyana's death May 16, 2011
“The police and the prosecutor (and others) will go to any length to get rid of the Aiyana Jones story including but not limited to creating fictitious stories and associations,” said Roland Lawrence, chair of the city’s Justice for Aiyana Jones Committees.

“Unless these entities come out and explain to the public what is really going on, there will be a parade of stories created about them and why they are sitting on the investigation into Aiyana’s death. Were Worthy, Evans, Bing and others so intimately involved in arranging for the Hollywood film crews to trample through Aiyana’s poverty-stricken neighborhood that they are working overtime to quash the investigation because they do not want to be implicated? Were there 36th District Court judges involved as it pertains to the signing of arrest warrants? Were the Detroit and Michigan Film Offices involved in arranging for film permits? The community should conduct their own investigation, and let the can of worms come running out.”

On May 20, Wayne County Circuit Court Judge Richard Skutt postponed Owens’ sentencing from May 23 to July 29, reportedly because complications have arisen regarding the terms of the plea bargain.


Asst. Prosecutor Robert Moran speaking during court hearing on former Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick's text messages
“Defendant must testify truthfully about who supplied him with the gun to shoot the victim,” Assistant Prosecutor Robert Moran said in the plea document in Owens’ file. “If defendant cooperates and testifies truthfully, then we will ask the sentencing judge to reduce the sentence by two years. He must testify at all hearings requested and must submit to polygraph exams.”

According to his court file, Owens’ statements to police were obtained soon after the police assault on Aiyana’s home, but only after he repeatedly denied any involvement in Blake’s death, and after he discovered Aiyana had died. His attorneys Pamela Szydlak and later David Cripps filed and argued motions to suppress the statements, which Skutt denied.


Je'Rean Blake
In the contested statements, Owens says Charles Jones was with him in a group that went to the store at St. Jean and Mack where Je’Rean was shot to death. However, he names another individual as the one who gave him the gun.

He said he first went to the store with his brother, known as “Chinaman,” and a friend, but his brother could not get into the store to buy a beer because a group of young people outside the store “were talking s—.”

Two witnesses who testified at Owens’ preliminary exam, who knew neither Owens nor Blake, said there were approximately 40 people in the crowd. They said Owens and Blake had a verbal confrontation. Owens said he then drove down Lillibridge on his moped, encountered the group including Charles Jones, and asked them to go to the store with him to “whup some ass.”

Owens said they did so.

Asked whether Charles Jones knew what was going to happen, he said only, “He knew the gun was there.” He said the group had a gun for self-defense because one was wearing diamond Cartier glasses, and the the person who gave him the gun told him to take it for self-defense because “there are a lot of n—-s out there.” He said he fired the gun accidentally.

The preliminary exam witnesses identified Owens as the shooter. On cross-examination, Szydlak obtained an admission from one that he did not pick him out of a photo display immediately after the shooting.




“We heard a shot, we jumped up, my fiancée went downstairs,” Owens said. “My oldest daughter who is 15 came upstairs because she was scared. I told her to get dressed. I had my boxer shorts on. I came down and the police started screaming at me and handcuffed me.”


Interior of Jones' home after Aiyana was killed; couch cushions on which she was sleeping are on floor, after family moved couch outside to porch
Owens told the psychiatrist the police took him into the Jones’ flat, and sat him down on the couch where Aiyana died.

“Blood was on me and pieces of brain were all over the couch,” he said. Later after he was taken to the police station, he said the police would not give him his clothes, only a paper gown.

“I was freezing,” Owens said. “They put a shower cap on my head and laughed at me.”


Police investigator Theophilus Williams looks at statement signed by Chauncey Owens during preliminary exam in front of Judge Willie Lipscomb, Jr.
According to the psychiatrists’ accounts, as well as accounts of the videotaped statement in the court file, Owens denied any involvement in the Blake killing for over one and a half hours. He kept asking to call his fiancée. One officer told him he would let him call her if he gave him the testimony he wanted. Owens finally agreed, and was allowed to call Sanders.

“The detective wanted to use the phone call he gave him to get him to confess,” the psychiatrist wrote. Szydlak said in her motion to suppress the statement that police knew Sanders would tell him Aiyana was dead, and that he would be “overcome with anguish and grief.”

Sanders did so. Owens began weeping, then composed himself and gave the police the statement on record..


Defense Attorney Pamela Szydlak and Chauncey Owens at preliminary exam
In statements, Owens said he confessed to cover up his brother’s role in the shooting, but the police told him that he would not want to testify against his brother. They also told him, as Szydlak said in her motion, “that his family had suffered enough and he should agree with the interrogator for the sake of his family.”

Owens also told the psychiatrists he had been raised by his grandparents, and that his mother died of cirrhosis of the liver in 2008, after he had cared for her during her declining years. He said an uncle had abused him. He reported that he had “auditory hallucinations” from the age of 13 until the age of 30, and also reported paranoid delusions. He said he had been in special education classes since fourth grade, left school in the seventh grade and could barely read and write. He said the other students made fun of him.

The psychiatrists said those reports did not show Owens was mentally incompetent or unable to waive his Miranda Rights, as he did by signing a statement that the police had him read. They also asked him to read his confession out loud, written out by the police officer. The record shows he started to do, then stopped and just signed it.

One psychiatrist concluded, “It is the examiner’s opinion that available information raises the possibility that Mr. Owens functions below average intellectually, and the reader may wish to consider whether below average intellectual functioning might have impaired his ability to understand that the police meant to use the statements against him and that he was free to stop the questioning and request an attorney.”

That psychiatrist also said that Owens told him he was not sure if he could be tried without an attorney.


Judge Richard Skutt (Facebook photo)
Owens’ plea bargain was reached April 11 as he was about to go to trial. A jury had already been impaneled. Assistant Prosecutor Maria Miller, communications director for Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, issued the following statement regarding the plea bargain.

“Today Owens entered a guilty plea before Judge Richard Skutt to Second Degree Murder which carries a penalty of Life or any term of years. He received a sentence agreement of 28 years in prison. He also pleaded guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm (5 years) and Felony Firearm (2 years mandatory consecutive). As part of the sentence agreement Owens is required to testify truthfully in any future proceeding about who supplied him with the murder weapon. After Owens testifies the prosecution can appear before the court to request a sentence reduction on the Second Degree Murder charge to a sentence of 26 years. He is expected to be sentenced on May 23, 2011.




1) What are the reasons for the delay in Chauncey Owens’ sentencing?
2) Is the prosecutor’s office delaying the sentencing of Chauncey Owens because of the conflicting statements?
3) Is it the aim of the prosecutor’s office to charge Charles Jones in the Je’Rean Blake killing to divert attention away from the police killing of his daughter Aiyana Jones?
4) Although Judge Skutt denied defense motions to suppress Owens’ statements to police, does the prosecutor’s office support the following tactics:

· Waiting to arrest suspect until a spectacular scene could be set up for a reality TV show?

· Seating suspect on couch where Aiyana Jones died, covered with her blood and bits of brains, after his arrest?

· Interrogating him while he was dressed in his boxer shorts and a paper gown, and complained of freezing?

· Police putting shower cap on his head and laughing at him?

· Enticing him to confess with promises that he could call his fiancee if he went along with the interrogators’ version of events in his statements?

· Telling him to confess to save his family further grief?

5) Again, WHY have no charges yet been brought against the police in the death of Aiyana Jones? Your earlier statement regarding the length of time the prosecutor’s investigation is taking belies the fact that Prosecutor Worthy turned over the investigation immediately to the Michigan State Police to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest. WHY would she now have to conduct her own investigation? Couldn’t this be considered obstruction of justice?



http://voiceofdetroit.net/2011/05/23/owens-never-said-aiyana-jones%E2%80%99-dad-gave-him-gun-used-in-teen%E2%80%99s-killing/

[VXIII]

Better to be a morale killer than a child killer.

I can't figure out why the photographer/video person would commit perjury. What was in it for her? Did someone get to her?

She gave the video to the Attorney for the family or at least showed it to him then said she gave it to a third party is what Im understanding is the basis for the charges... This is a pretty stinky situation they are doing all they can to cover up...

[Whisper]

Wow, thats kind of weird to wait so long to file charges on this guy and coincidental too, Im just not buying it due to the past lies and coverups by Detroit PD, I wouldnt put anything past them now...I was unable to find the video footage shot by 48 hrs, does anyone still have a link for it?
A year ago I wouldve been doubtful as well BUT they are really trying to clean up and clean out the city


So I wonder what Officer Griffin would say if it was HIS daughter that the cops shot. Sure, it was an accident, but that officer was just totally careless.
The big thing is he fired from outside without looking at what he was firing into namely her sleeping on the couch

The producer was charged with perjury for lying and not supplying copies of her tapes filmed that night to police
She gave tapes to Fieger b/c she didnt want a police cover up and thats what the last police chief wouldve done

[Whisper]

This is the guy that lead to Aiyanna being murdered

Chauncey Owens' sentence delayed for murder of Detroit teen

http://i41.tinypic.com/i6xxsy.jpg
Chauncey Owens'

DETROIT (WXYZ) -[...]
Owens was supposed to testify against Charles Jones, saying Jones supplied the gun for Owens to kill 17-year-old Ja'Rean Blake.

Jones is the father of 7-year-old Aiyana who was shot and killed during a police raid when officers were looking for Owens.

In exchange for the testimony against Jones, Owens would get 30 years in prison.

In November, during a preliminary exam, Owens appeared to reconsider the plea deal when invoking the 5 th amendment while on the stand. He was held in contempt of court by a judge in the 36 District Court, and the preliminary exam was rescheduled for Dec. 22.

Owens’ decision to testify will affect how Judge Richard Skutt sentences him on January 5 for his role in the death of Ja’Rean Blake.
http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/region/detroit/man-to-be-sentenced-for-murder-of-detroit-teen#ixzz1fOn0UcWe

[Whisper]

Confessed shooter in teen's murder refuses to testify against man he told prosecutors gave him gun

DETROIT (WXYZ) - The deal prosecutors thought they had with Chauncey Owens, the confessed shooter of 17-year-old Je'Rean Blake, appears to have fallen apart as Owens again refuses to testify against the man he told prosecutors gave him the gun.

Prosecutors believe Charles Jones not only gave Owens the gun used to kill Blake, but also went along for the ride to the store where Blake was gunned down in May 2010.

While Owens admitted to shooting Blake after he and the teen reportedly exchanged dirty looks, Owens was allowed to plea to 2nd Degree Murder in exchange for his testimony against Jones.

On Thursday, during the preliminary examination for Jones, David Cripps, Owens' defense attorney, said his client would not testify unless protected from possible perjury charges which leads to speculation that he may not be planning to implicate Jones, a friend, as prosecutors expected he would.

Jones is facing multiple charges in the Blake case including 1st Degree Murder.

Jones is the father of Aiyana Stanley-Jones, 7, who was shot and killed by Detroit Police during a raid at her home in May 2010. Police went to the Jones' home looking for Owens who they suspected was involved in Blake's murder. Owens was living in the upstairs flat with Charles Jones' sister.

The police shooting death of Aiyana prompted her family to file a lawsuit against the City of Detroit.

With Owens now refusing to testify against Jones, Assistant Prosecutor Robert Moran told the judge they will now be moving to revoke their plea deal with Owens and looking to send him to trial for 1st Degree Murder.

Owens did not seem bothered by Moran's words and even appeared to be smiling at times before being led back to jail.
[...]http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/region/detroit/confessed-shooter-in-teens-murder-refuses-to-testify-against-man-he-told-prosecutors-gave-him-gun#ixzz1hKpaIo00

http://i43.tinypic.com/4uz8up.jpg
Charles Jones

[Whisper]

Defense: Aiyana Jones' grandmother grabbed Detroit officer's gun
Prosecution says Officer Joseph Weekley was negligent when he fired shot that killed 7-year-old Aiyana Jones in 2010


DETROIT -
Dominika Stanley was the mother of 7-year-old Aiyana Jones.

As opening statements began in court on Monday, Stanley identified the blanket that covered her daughter as Detroit police officer Joseph Weekley fired a deadly shot. Aiyana was sleeping on a couch next to her grandmother, Mertila Jones. They were near the front door. Stanley was in a bedroom. Police entered the house and set off a flash grenade.

Prosecutors say Weekley was grossly negligent and is guilty of involuntary manslaughter. They say he did not follow police procedures which called for him to keep his finger off the trigger. However, the officer's lawyer had his own things to say to the jury about Weekley.


"Officer Joe Weekley did not walk into that house and shoot Aiyana Stanley Jones without somebody doing something to that gun," said defense attorney Steve Fishman.

Fishman says the girl's grandmother hit the gun after police set off the flash grenade. Prosecutors say there was no grabbing of the gun and no struggle.

Weekley was part of a special response team. They were at the home to arrest a suspect in the murder of 17-year-old Jerean Blake. Blake was killed in the neighborhood just two days earlier.

It's not clear if Weekley will testify in his own defense.

Mertila Jones says she did not interfere with the gun. She may be the most important witness in this case.
[..]
http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/defense-aiyana-jones-grandmother-grabbed-detroit-officers-gun/-/1719418/20405370/-/5vmensz/-/index.html

looking forward to the video when its shown
The First 48 has it all on tape

Detroit passed a law b/c of this case that reality shows like this can no longer do their shows

[Whisper]

http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/

[Whisper]

DETROIT (WXYZ) - The trial of a Detroit Police officer charged with involuntary manslaughter of 7-year-old Aiyana Jones continued today.

Video -- never publicly released -- of a police raid on Aiyana Jones' family home is being shown in court. It was during the 2010 raid that the 7-year-old was shot and killed as she slept on the couch.

The main witness on the stand Tuesday morning was DPD Homicide Investigator Latonya Brooks. She talked about the planning before the search warrant execution and what she saw during the raid.

The prosecution showed the jury clips of the footage shot by the reality TV series "The First 48."

The most anticipated footage showed the time stamps of 12:43 and 12:44 a.m. on May 16, 2010. That's when chaos erupted. The flash of stun grenades can be seen. The sound includes loud pops and barking dogs along with the officers' voices.

Investigator Brooks described how the man she was holding down on the sidewalk -- a relative of Aiyana's -- said he thought the girl had been shot.

Defense attorney Steven Fishman questioned Brooks about having a TV crew with them at the time. She testified that it was a decision from the top that nobody wanted and agreed with the attorney that having a video crew tagging along added pressure to an already high-pressure situation.

Opening statements began Monday in what proved to be an emotional day in court. The prosecution called Aiyana's mother to the stand where she tearfully recounted the moments that led up to her daughter's death.

Aiyana's mother spoke about the day her daughter was killed. She says officers made her sit on the couch where Aiyana was killed.

The prosecution also touched on evidence pointing to the fact that no one touched Officer Weekley's gun. They also commented on the training Weekley went through to become a member of the highly skilled Detroit Police Special Response Team.

Officer Weekley is charged with Involuntary Manslaughter and Careless Discharge of a Weapon Causing Death.
[....]
Read more: http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/region/wayne_county/detroit-police-officer-on-trial-for-shooting-death-of-7-year-old-aiyana-jones#ixzz2VHIaWGp3




Can watch "The First 48" video,,,not that great but you can hear the screaming and confusion in the house

[Whisper]

Prosecutor says Joseph Weekley made key errors in raid that killed 7-year-old girl
http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/testimony-resumes-in-officers-trial-for-aiyana-jones-death/-/1719418/20406154/-/3uof53/-/index.html

[Whisper]

can watch trial live here

http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/watch-live-day-2-of-detroit-officers-trial-in-aiyana-jones-death/-/1719418/20413874/-/5e0u32z/-/index.html

[Whisper]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DlGE9RF6ks

[Whisper]

DETROIT (WXYZ) - Thursday the grandmother of 7-year-old Aiyana Jones may take the stand in the trial of a Detroit Police officer accused in the shooting death of the child.
[....]http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/region/detroit/grandmother-may-take-stand-in-shooting-death-trail-of-7-year-old#ixzz2VSLzWgyT

[Whisper]

http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/jury-hears-tactics-used-by-police-when-7yearold-detroit-girl-was-killed/-/1719418/20456548/-/8ykl3s/-/index.html

[Whisper]

Emotional day in court for Officer Joseph Weekly as Mertilla Jones testifies

DETROIT -
Mertilla Jones told jurors on Monday that as soon as Detroit police officers entered her home in May 2010 it sounded like the front window "exploded".

Jones testified she and Aiyana had a ritual of sleeping together on a couch which was in front of a large window. The window was covered with blinds and a blanket.
testified, "I rolled onto the floor because glass from the window was on the couch - lying on my stomach – looking at the front door. I saw all these police rushing into the front door. It looked like there could’ve been maybe three or four."
Prosecutor: "Did you see them come into your house as you were lying on the floor?"

Mertilla: "Yes I did."

Prosecutor: "What happened then?"

Mertilla: "As soon as they came in (pause) the gun was just pointing right there and Aiyana was hit. He pulled the trigger."

Prosecutor: "After you saw her get shot what did you do?"

Mertilla: "I was screaming and hollering. I said, 'You done f**ked up! You all did f**k this up. You killed my granddaughter.' They weren't paying any attention to me."
[....]http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/aiyana-jones-grandma-testifies-aiyana-was-hit/-/1719418/20498178/-/ul9tiiz/-/index.html

[Whisper]

DETROIT -
A police officer who took part in a raid on a Detroit home testified Tuesday that he didn't see anyone struggle with another officer before a 7-year-old girl was fatally shot on a couch.

Shawn Stallard said he was just an arms-length behind Officer Joseph Weekley when they burst into the home while a stun grenade was thrown through a window to distract people inside. Weekley accidentally fired his gun a few seconds later, killing Aiyana Stanley-Jones.

Stallard repeatedly told jurors that he saw no one in the vicinity, casting some doubt on Weekley's claim that Aiyana's grandmother grabbed the submachine gun. Police were at the home after midnight in 2010 to capture a murder suspect.
"Did you see anyone try to take the gun away from him?" assistant prosecutor Rob Moran asked.

"No," Stallard replied.

[....]

Stallard said Detroit police are trained to push a person away if they grab an officer's gun or move the weapon in the shape of a "J'' to keep control. He said officers aren't trained to pull the trigger under those circumstances.

On cross-examination, Stallard acknowledged that the house was very dark.

"This is a very dangerous job. No amount of training can make everything safe all the time," Stallard said.

Another officer, John Collins, testified that Weekley was in a "state of panic" immediately after the shooting, repeatedly declaring, "she grabbed my gun, she grabbed my gun."

He said he advised Weekley to "tell the truth."

On Monday, Aiyana's grandmother, Mertilla Jones, denied grabbing Weekley's gun. She was at the opposite end of the same couch where the girl was shot. Jones said she rolled onto the floor after the noise and bright flash from the grenade, and was on her stomach.
http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/detroit-police-officer-says-he-saw-no-struggle-before-aiyana-jones-death/-/1719418/20511908/-/ux1c55z/-/index.html

[Whisper]

Wayne County prosecutor to conclude Aiyana Jones manslaughter case with a field trip

DETROIT — Wayne County Assistant Prosecutor Robert Moran will rest his case against Detroit Special Response Team Officer Joseph Weekley Wednesday with an explosion.
Weekley is charged with involuntary manslaughter, which carries a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, and reckless discharge of a firearm causing death stemming from the May 16, 2010 shooting of 7-year-old Aiyana Stanley Jones.

For the grand finale, Moran will transport the 13-member jury to an undisclosed location, a private residence, for a demonstration of a flashbang grenade detonation.


Media and Aiyana's mother Dominika Stanley are allowed to attend the demonstration.


Detroit police threw once such grenade though the first-floor window of the home where Aiyana Jones slept on the couch with her grandmother about 12:45 a.m. seconds before Weekley's gun fired, fatally shooting the girl in the head.

Moran called nearly 20 witnesses during presentation of his case, including numerous police officers; detectives; Aiyana's grandmother, Mertila Jones; her mother, Dominika Stanley; and other relatives and acquaintances of the family who were present when Aiyana died.

Aiyana didn't live at 4054 Lillibridge, the lower apartment in a two-apartment multi-family home, but had been visiting for multiple days when the raid and shooting occurred, her mother testified.


According to testimony, there were six adults and four children — Aiyana included — inside the apartment when police forcibly entered searching for murder suspect Chauncey Owens, who was later convicted of killing 17-year-old Je'Rean Blake outside a party store in broad daylight two days prior.

Detroit police later arrested Charles Jones, Aiyana's father, who was in the home the night she died, in connection with the Blake homicide. They believe he provided Owens the gun used in the killing. He is jailed pending trial.

Despite crime scene photos taken hours after the shooting depicting children's items on the porch of the home, multiple officers testified their surveillance revealed no evidence indicating children resided inside the home.


The crux of the case is whether Weekley was negligent the night Aiyana was killed, whether his deadly actions could have reasonably been avoided.


His attorney, Steven Fishman, claims it was not reckless or careless but an accident prompted by Mertila Jones when she swiped at the officer's gun.

Moran argues that Weekley made an avoidable mistake and should be punished.


Mertila Jones, in her testimony, alleged that Weekley intentionally shot her granddaughter.

"They came to kill," she told the court, "and they killed a 7 year old."

Weekley, nicknamed "Brain" by his fellow Special Response Team members
[....]http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2013/06/wayne_county_prosecutor_to_con.html

[MCMLXIX]

So I wonder what Officer Griffin would say if it was HIS daughter that the cops shot. Sure, it was an accident, but that officer was just totally careless.

Careless!? No way, it was 12.15am , it's dark i'm looking for a murderer, i hear a noise, i'm not saying everyone would shoot.
But i bet half of you would if you thought he was there.he's a murderer, your sentences are harsh in comparison so killing a cop wouldn't mean shit.
People should walk a mile in someone elses shoes.
Yes he fucked up and probably feels utterly shit right now.
We could benefit from your penal system, longer sentences and yes i'm a strong advocate of the rope, that's why our jails are so overcrowded.

[Whisper]

Careless!? No way, it was 12.15am , it's dark i'm looking for a murderer, i hear a noise, i'm not saying everyone would shoot.
But i bet half of you would if you thought he was there.he's a murderer, your sentences are harsh in comparison so killing a cop wouldn't mean shit.
People should walk a mile in someone elses shoes.
Yes he fucked up and probably feels utterly shit right now.
We could benefit from your penal system, longer sentences and yes i'm a strong advocate of the rope, that's why our jails are so overcrowded.

have you watched the videos I have posted of what happened live at the moment???
He is at fault and was using a gun that took a 8 pound weight to shoot it wasnt an accident he fired
It was an accident that Aiyana was killed
even the cops that have testified the past 2 days who said nobody was near him,nobody touched him all the cops by him have said this
watch the video of the show The First 48
PUMPING the cops up with a high energy pep talk before they went in
The show should shoulder some of the responsibility and because of her death those shows are no longer allowed to tape in Detroit (could be Michigan)

[MCMLXIX]

So I wonder what Officer Griffin would say if it was HIS daughter that the cops shot. Sure, it was an accident, but that officer was just totally careless.

How do you know? Were you there?
People are too quick to judge...

[MCMLXIX]

have you watched the videos I have posted of what happened live at the moment???
He is at fault and was using a gun that took a 8 pound weight to shoot it wasnt an accident he fired
It was an accident that Aiyana was killed
even the cops that have testified the past 2 days who said nobody was near him,nobody touched him all the cops by him have said this
watch the video of the show The First 48
PUMPING the cops up with a high energy pep talk before they went in
The show should shoulder some of the responsibility and because of her death those shows are no longer allowed to tape in Detroit (could be Michigan)

As i always say it isn't the wild west, guns should be carried by cops and soldiers it's 2013 after all.
This cop just happened to of fucked up and it cost a little girls life..tragic yes.
Maybe he should go on another course or whatever to get his firearms licence back.

[Whisper]

DETROIT -
Detroit police Officer Joseph Weekley, accused of manslaughter in the shooting death of a 7-year-old girl, took the witness stand Thursday in his own defense.

"I replay it every day in my head. There’s nothing I could have done differently," said Weekley.

On May 16, 2010, Weekley led a raid into a house where Aiyana Jones was visiting. He and other members of the Special Response Team were there to arrest a murder suspect
[...]
The first thing I see making entry is the room is empty. The TV is on. There’s a couch to my immediate left, with laundry and blankets on it," Weekley said.

Aiyana and her grandmother Mertilla Jones were sleeping on that couch. Weekley says he turned his submachine gun in that direction when he heard a voice.

"As I swing my weapon toward the person, an unidentified woman hit the weapon down in a downward motion and pulled back on the weapon. She hit it with such force ... I must have pulled the trigger," he said.

Weekley says he didn’t realize his gun had fired. Thinking the shot came from a man standing near a bedroom, he moved toward him.

During cross examination, Assistant Prosecutor Robert Moran questioned how Weekley could not have realized his weapon had discharged. He also challenged Weekley’s assertion that he did not notice toys outside the house before the raid.

Weekley did not appear rattled by the questions. However, when his lawyer, Steve Fishman, asked him about his two young daughters, the defendant paused several seconds and fought back tears.

Aiyana’s mother and grandmother were in tears in the back of the courtroom.

Jury deliberations begin Friday. http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/detroit-officer-gives-emotional-testimony-in-trial-for-girls-shooting-during-raid/-/1719418/20561482/-/w5nas6/-/index.html

[Krystal]

As i always say it isn't the wild west, guns should be carried by cops and soldiers it's 2013 after all.
This cop just happened to of fucked up and it cost a little girls life..tragic yes.
Maybe he should go on another course or whatever to get his firearms licence back.

Spoken by someone who can get cops at their house quickly? I had my exhusband try to kidnap my oldest son, he showed up drunk and high and EXTREMELY violent, I called the cops and when they finally arrived an hour and a half later I was holding the exhusband at bay with a loaded .45 trained on him.

I am a law abiding citizen who has been shooting for over 30 years and I believe that NO ONE has the right to take away my rights that I have earned by keeping my record clean. I am licensed, experienced and responsible.

[Whisper]

Jury deliberations begin in shooting death trial of 7-year-old Aiyana Jones


Read more: http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/state/Deliberations-next-in-trial-of-Detroit-cop-charged-in-fatal-shooting-of-7-year-old-Aiyana-Jones#ixzz2WDUQGLmX

[biteme]

As i always say it isn't the wild west, guns should be carried by cops and soldiers it's 2013 after all.
This cop just happened to of fucked up and it cost a little girls life..tragic yes.
Maybe he should go on another course or whatever to get his firearms licence back.

One If By Land Two If By Sea
Piers that you

[MCMLXIX]

One If By Land Two If By Sea
Piers that you

Bite me! :laughing:

[MCMLXIX]

Spoken by someone who can get cops at their house quickly? I had my exhusband try to kidnap my oldest son, he showed up drunk and high and EXTREMELY violent, I called the cops and when they finally arrived an hour and a half later I was holding the exhusband at bay with a loaded .45 trained on him.

I am a law abiding citizen who has been shooting for over 30 years and I believe that NO ONE has the right to take away my rights that I have earned by keeping my record clean. I am licensed, experienced and responsible.

30 years experience and a second to blow it all away.

[Krystal]

30 years experience and a second to blow it all away.

Yes, because I often treat my guns like they are toys that I can pull out and play with, especially around my children. Hell, they even play too. I most certainly was NEVER taught that they are a deadly weapon and only to be pointed at someone or something you intend to not only shoot but kill, and I've never taught my boys that either.

[Whisper]

MISTRIAL


Hung jury, mistrial declared in Weekley's trial for Aiyana Jones death

DETROIT -
A mistrial has been declared after jurors said they won't continue deliberating in the trial for a Detroit officer charged in the 2010 shooting death of a 7-year-old girl.

The jury sent a note Tuesday to Judge Cynthia Gray Hathaway saying no significant progress had been made toward a verdict in their three days of deliberations. That was followed by another note that said the jury was unable to reach a verdict.

Hathaway said a new pre-trial will be scheduled for July 25.
[....]http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/jury-in-detroit-officers-trial-meets-for-3rd-day/-/1719418/20614024/-/dve68nz/-/index.html

[biteme]

Careless!? No way, it was 12.15am , it's dark i'm looking for a murderer, i hear a noise, i'm not saying everyone would shoot.
But i bet half of you would if you thought he was there.he's a murderer, your sentences are harsh in comparison so killing a cop wouldn't mean shit.
People should walk a mile in someone elses shoes.
Yes he fucked up and probably feels utterly shit right now.
We could benefit from your penal system, longer sentences and yes i'm a strong advocate of the rope, that's why our jails are so overcrowded.
You're right some people should NOT be allowed around guns, you prove it over and over Piers
But some of us are normal and don't have the same issues as you, we don't panic, turn to jello or pee our pants when some one sneezes, that's why we're allowed to handle weapons and you're not