Verdict Stuns Observers When Georgia Deputies Avoid Conviction After Black Man Dies Following Multiple Taser Shocks Over Water

A group of former deputies in Georgia has been acquitted of all charges after a criminal trial concerning the death of Eurie Lee Martin, a man who was repeatedly tased. The now-dismissed deputies, Henry Lee Copeland, Michael Howell, and Rhett Scott, were terminated from their positions at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office following an internal probe into Martin's death, which occurred on July 7, 2017. On a sweltering day, Martin, who was 58 and suffered from schizophrenia, walked 30 miles and requested water at a residence. The homeowner, uncertain of Martin’s state, called 911, prompting the response from the deputies. They confronted Martin, and upon his perceived non-compliance, tased him 15 times. Despite a homicide ruling in the autopsy report, the officers claimed self-defense. Ultimately, after two trials with different outcomes, they were acquitted of felony murder and aggravated assault. The family of Martin plans to pursue a civil lawsuit, seeking accountability for the tragic incident. (Photo: Screenshot bodycam footage)