Wednesday, November 18, 2009
© Copyright 2013
Albany Herald
Photo by Bill Strickland
Edwards had earlier said he intended to call witnesses of the shooting before the grand jury to recount their version of events; events that apparently contradict the preliminary findings of the GBI.
Instead, Edwards is urging Quimbley to call the inquest, which is essentially a public hearing to determine the manner of death, so that those involved can publicly state their claims.
"I'm not convinced that there was a need to put forth a criminal concern before the grand jury in a closed hearing," Edwards said. "So I've asked the coroner to hold this inquest to give those who were involved an opportunity to speak publicly."
Riggins was shot to death by Albany Police officer Eric Strom after her roomate called police reporting a domestic argument.
Some witnesses said on local television broadcasts that the officer gunned down Riggins as she stood with her hands in the air and unarmed -- which contrasts with the preliminary findings of the GBI that show that Riggins not only was holding a .357 magnum handgun, but fired on Strom at least once.
Earlier this month, Edwards issued subpoenas to those witness to testify before the grand jury -- which is a closed and secret proceeding.
More like this story
- DA to call coroner's inquest into cop shooting incident ( November 18, 2009 )
- Dougherty DA will not press charges against APD officer ( January 26, 2010 )
- Riggins shooting justified ( January 26, 2010 )
- Police shooting findings to be released today ( January 25, 2010 )
- DA to release findings on cop shooting ( January 25, 2010 )
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