Judge Weighs 'Stand Your Ground' Defense in Alabama Police Shooting Case

The decision will determine if Officer Mac Marquette faces trial for the 2023 fatal shooting of Steve Perkins during a disputed vehicle repossession.

Newly released body camera footage shows Steve Perkins pointing a gun at Officer Mac Marquette but also suggests he may have been attempting to surrender before being shot.
The case hinges on whether Marquette had the legal right to be on Perkins' property, as Alabama law prohibits police from assisting in repossessions without a court order after a breach of peace.
Prosecutors argue that the officers' actions, including staying out of sight, undermined their claim of maintaining peace and violated legal protocols.
Defense attorneys contend that Marquette and his colleagues were responding to a citizen's request for assistance and acted within their responsibilities.
The judge's pending decision on Marquette's immunity under Alabama's 'stand your ground' law will determine if the case proceeds to trial in April 2025.