Story highlights Robert Bates said he meant to subdue a suspect with a Taser but accidentally shot him

The preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 2

The judge said Bates was free to travel to the Bahamas for a family vacation

(CNN) An Oklahoma reserve sheriff's deputy accused of fatally shooting a man he says he meant to subdue with a Taser pleaded not guilty Tuesday to a charge of second-degree manslaughter.

At the hearing, the judge granted Robert Bates permission to go to the Bahamas for a family vacation.

That decision prompted a response from the family of Eric Harris, the man Bates killed.

"We are not surprised that Mr. Bates pled not guilty. We are, however, surprised that Mr. Bates would choose to go on a vacation to the Bahamas during this tumultuous time. Whether intended or not, Mr. Bates' vacationing in the Bahamas at this time sends a message of apathy with respect to the shooting and Eric's life. At a time when we are still mourning the death of a loved one that he shot down in the street, Mr. Bates will be relaxing and enjoying his wealth and privilege."

Bates' preliminary hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. July 2.

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