UPDATE: Both motions filed by Kerrick’s attorneys have been denied. A request for a gag order had also been filed, but this request was also denied by the judge at today’s hearing.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A judge has denied a change of venue request in the trial of a CMPD officer accused of shooting and killing an unarmed man.
Attorneys for Wes Kerrick have been fighting to get a change of venue due to media exposure on the case. Β The judge said he would reserve the right to revisit the motion during jury selection.
Kerrick was charged with voluntary manslaughter in the 2013 shooting death of Jonathan Ferrell. Β
Ferrell, 24, wrecked his car in east Charlotte and after wrecking, Ferrell went to a nearby home. The woman inside called 911, saying Ferrell was trying to force his way into her home.
Investigators say Kerrick was one of three police officers who responded. Officers say once on scene, Ferrell charged at them and refused to listen to their orders to stop.
One officer fired a TASER at Ferrell, but according to the defense, the TASER had no effect on Ferrell.The defense says Ferrell continued to advance on Kerrick.
Kerrick shot Ferrell when he allegedly saw Ferrell reach for his waistband. The two then allegedly fell to the ground and began fighting. The defense says Ferrell hit Kerrick in the face and grabbed Kerrick’s gun.
Investigators say Kerrick fired a total of 12 shots, 10 of which hit Ferrell. Ferrell was not armed.Β
