Summary: The University of Cincinnati police officer that fatally shot Samuel Dubose during a traffic stop was charged with murder and manslaughter a day after his arrest.
Former University of Cincinnati police officer Raymond Tensing pleaded not guilty to the charges of murder and manslaughter Thursday morning. Tensing shot a driver during a traffic stop that quickly turned violent.
Ten days after the shooting just a block away from campus, Tensing made his first court appearance a day after he was arrested. The two other university police officers were placed on leave after the shooting.
The public, with the aid of the media, took to the streets with rallies and protests, demanding that the footage of the traffic stop be released. The body camera video was released on Wednesday, showing that Tensing acted in self-defense.
The grand jury indicted Tensing on the count of murder and voluntary manslaughter, causing a warrant to be released for his arrest. Tensing turned himself in. He remained standing during the hearing, only speaking to tell the judge that he understood the charges he was facing.
His attorney asked for a reasonable bond so that Tensing could return to his father’s home, using his exemplary record and no prior criminal record as evidence of his good character. Tensing could face life in prison. The judge set his bond was set at $1 million, stating “it’s the court’s duty to ensure his appearance.”
After his bond was read, the courtroom erupted in applause until the judge silenced them. Officials have asked the public to be peaceful in their rallies. A shooting in 2001 of a black man by a police officer resulted in violent rioting for several days. The rally Wednesday night outside the courthouse was done peacefully and quickly.
Photo: foxnews.com