Bushnell acquitted on all charges

Jeff Humphrey by Jeff Humphrey







Edward Bushnell, who shot and killed someone while trying to stop a domestic violence incident, has been acquitted on all charges.

The jury found the defendant was acting as a good Samaritan.

If convicted as charged, Bushnell was looking at a 25 year prison term.

Bushnell says he’s happy with the not guilty verdicts but will never be okay with taking someone else’s life.

Bushnell hugged his attorney as a series of not guilty verdicts cleared him criminal liability in the fatal shooting of a man in East Central Spokane almost 2 years ago.

Bushnell saw a total stranger getting beaten by her boyfriend and when Bushnell tried to stop the attack, he was clubbed in the face.

After Bushnell was knocked to the ground and the couple started walking away, Bushnell pulled a pistol out of his bag and shot William Poindexter in the back.

Prosecutors felt at that point in the conflict, the use of deadly force was no longer justified.

On Thursday, a Spokane jury disagreed.

“He thought he was doing the right thing and I think he was doing the right thing,” said Rob Cossey, Defense Attorney.

Jurors could have even found Bushnell guilty of manslaughter but felt the defendant’s deadly actions were justified.

“I don’t think it’s ever too costly to stick up for someone who is in danger, I think their life is worth it too,” said Bushnell.

Bushnell was very close to a 25 year prison term but still hopes good Samaritans will take reasonable steps to protect others.

Prosecutors brought this case because they want people who live here to understand the awesome responsibilities and laws involved if you choose to use deadly force.

Later on Tuesday afternoon, a jury also found that Bushnell acted in self-defense and will now be re-imbursed for his attorney’s fees.

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