Q: Are there any criminal defenses for abused children who kill their parents?
Texas criminal defense attorneys and the rest of the nation are watching with interest the case of a teenage boy arrested for “allegedly killing the father who kidnapped him” from his Houston home 11 years ago.
Reportedly, the boy’s mother and half-sister hadn’t seen or heard from him since he was kidnapped at the age of five – about two months after the mother filed for a protective order against his father. Reflecting that life was “extremely violent” prior to the kidnapping, the boy’s half-sister speculated on what he’s been through during the past 11 years. In addition to reportedly being “charged with assault three times between 2001 and 2002” the boy’s father–who had remarried– allegedly “knocked out several teeth” of his new wife who also reportedly filed a protective order against him and left him earlier this year.
The teen reportedly told police that “his father was drunk and started a fight… [and he] grabbed two guns to protect himself”. He said he shot his father in the head and torso before calling the police.
Currently, he has been charged with manslaughter in Louisiana, but the charges could possibly be upgraded to murder—or could be dropped if a grand jury determines the boy acted in self-defense. The boy has reportedly been “isolated and regularly abused by his father.”
Facing criminal charges is a frightening experience. So, if you are charged in Texas it’s important to hire a lawyer like Brock Benjamin that is Board-certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization on your side as soon as possible.
The strongest defense includes thorough preparation, investigation and evidence collection and begins with the presumption of your innocence. Even when the evidence against you may appear overwhelming at first glance, damaging evidence may often be excluded for various reasons and mitigating circumstances may be considered. Even if the particular circumstances do not warrant a dismissal of the charges or a likely acquittal at trial, a plea bargain may be possible.
Contact the Benjamin Law Firm Today
If you have been charged or expect to be charged with a state or federal crime, whether a misdemeanor or a felony, the Benjamin Law Firm can help you. Contact us today for a consultation.
Posted in: Criminal Defense