Another Pig Gets A Pass
Local charges against Ray Tensing dismissed with prejudice
Former University of Cincinnati officer charged with murder
CINCINNATI —
Local charges against former University of Cincinnati officer Ray Tensing were dismissed with prejudice during a hearing Monday.
Tensing, charged with murder and voluntary manslaughter in the shooting death of unarmed motorist Sam DuBose, was tried twice in Hamilton County. Both trials ended with hung juries.
Hamilton County Prosecutor Joe Deters announced last week that he will not try Tensing a third time. Tensing cannot be tried again by the state of Ohio in the case.
"Based on my conversations with jurors, I was always told by many of them that there would never be a unanimous decision," Defense attorney Stew Mathews said. "The jurors in this case were extremely attentive. They were divided on racial lines. I don't think that's any secret, at least it wasn't any secret when I talked to the jurors that participated. I think that's America today."
Tensing declined to comment as he left the court room.
"He's relieved, but the Department of Justice investigation potential is still out there. He's concerned about it," Defense attorney Stew Mathews said.
The U.S. Attorney's office says it is reviewing evidence from the trials to determine if an investigation is warranted into possible federal civil rights violations.
The decision has sparked demonstrations on both sides of the case.
A "Rally for Justice for Sam DuBose" was held Saturday.
A "Tensing Proud Vigil" to support Ray Tensing and his family is set for tonight at 6 p.m. on the Purple People Bridge and Black Lives Matter and other groups are expected to hold a counter-protest.