Felony Murder Case
In a landmark case, James Law Group successfully defended a 22-year-old motorcyclist facing second-degree murder charges after a Missouri highway patrolman’s tragic death. This case study highlights the firm’s expertise in handling complex criminal defense cases, such as a felony murder case, and securing favorable outcomes for clients.
THE INCIDENT
On a rural Missouri highway, a young motorcyclist was commuting to work at speeds exceeding 100 mph. He briefly passed a highway patrolman traveling in the opposite direction. Unaware of any pursuit, the motorcyclist continued his high-speed journey. The patrolman, attempting to catch up, reached speeds of nearly 150 mph before losing control and fatally crashing.
LEGAL CHALLANGES
Prosecutors charged the motorcyclist with second-degree murder (felony murder case), alleging:
- Awareness of the attempted traffic stop
- Intentional fleeing from law enforcement
- Direct causation of the officer’s death
JAMES LAW GROUP’S DEFENSE STRATEGY
The experienced attorneys at James Law Group developed a robust defense in the felony murder case:
- Proved the defendant’s lack of awareness of any pursuit
- Demonstrated consistent behavior rather than intentional fleeing
- Challenged the causal link between the defendant’s actions and the officer’s crash
TRIAL AND OUTCOME
After two intense six-day trials, James Law Group secured a Not Guilty verdict, showcasing their trial expertise
and dedication to client advocacy.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
This case exemplifies James Law Group’s ability to:
- Conduct thorough investigations
- Challenge prosecutorial assumptions
- Navigate complex legal scenarios
- Achieve favorable outcomes in high-stakes cases
FELONY MURDER CASE SUMMARY
A 22 year old man was driving to work on a racing motorcycle. While traveling on a rural, two-lane highway, he reached speeds over 100mph. As he crested a hill, he passed a police officer going the opposite direction at 55mph. The motorcyclist never saw the officer again and continued on his way to work as he had been (including the same excessive speeds). Unbeknownst to the motorcyclist, the officer turned around and attempted to catch up to the speeding motorcycle.
While traveling nearly 150mph, the officer lost control of his vehicle and crashed his vehicle. The officer was killed in the wreck and the motorcyclist was accused of knowing the officer was trying to pull him over and that he was trying to run from a lawful traffic stop. Because the officer died, the motorcyclist was charged with murder in the second degree (felony murder). After two six day trials, James Law Group secured a Not Guilty verdict at jury trial.