We need your help now
Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.
You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.
If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.
Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
By continuing, you are indicating that you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
Warning: video contains graphic violence
The Post and Courier / Vimeo
A MISTRIAL HAS been declared after a jury failed to reach a verdict in the murder trial of an ex-South Carolina police officer charged over the death of a black motorist.
Circuit Judge Clifton Newman declared the mistrial after a jury said that it was unable to unanimously agree on a verdict for Michael Slager.
The judge had told jurors they could also consider a lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter.
Slager was standing trial for shooting 50-year-old Walter Scott to death in North Charleston after stopping him for having a broken taillight.
A video taken by a bystander of the shooting was shown widely in the media and on the internet and sparked national and international outrage.
Race was never made a major issue at trial, even though Slager is white and Scott was black.
Jurors had deliberated more than 22 hours over four days.
Earlier today, a note from the jury asked a number of questions of the court, including why was voluntary manslaughter added as a charge and how long must someone have malice in their mind toward someone to be convicted of murder.
Jurors also asked whether the definition of self-defence for a police officer is different that for the average person.
On Friday, it appeared that the stalemate involved only one juror. But today’s note said that a majority of the jurors on the panel were undecided.
The jury was made up of 11 whites members and one black member.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
Well done to him! Hopefully Jack’s story will encourage and inspire those in a similar situation.
Positive attitude in the face of adversity. Well done to that lad, keep up the fighting spirit.
Amazing young man, and he is not even gay!!!
Brave young man. Fair play to him and best of luck with the challenge ahead
Hsve a great trip Jack and friends. Great story.
Magnificent moving speech this guy made. He has amazing spirit. He makes me feel shamed.
@Mike your a tool….this young lad is a beacon of positivity I do hope that he will go on to have a happy and fulfilling life cos its hard enough under normal circumstances, well done you.
have your say