Group discusses use of deadly force in self-defense

Members of the Eastside Business Association meeting March 31 heard Genesee County's Assistant Prosecutor Tim Cassidy explain what the law is in the use of deadly weapons in self-defense. Cassidy explained not only guns and knives are considered deadly, but golf clubs, bats and shovels could also inflict a fatal blow.

The law permits the use of deadly force in self-defense or the defense of others under certain conditions, Cassidy said.

"When force is used, the person must honestly and reasonably believe that he or another is in danger of being killed, seriously injured or sexually assaulted," Cassidy explained.

"A person may not use deadly force to protect against what seems like a threat of minor injury or loss of personal property," Cassidy said.

"If a person can safely retreat but does not do so, that can be considered when a jury decides if the person had an honest and reasonable belief that deadly force was necessary," Cassidy continued.

"However, a person is never required to retreat if attacked in his home or if the person believes the attacker is about to use a deadly weapon or the person is subject to sudden, fierce and violent attack," Cassidy said.

"During a break-in a person is forced to make a split second decision," Cassidy said. If the attacker is killed, law enforcement will scrutinize the defender's actions that may result in arrest and a trial by jury.

Members also heard about events for the Flint River Watershed and Flint River trail from Jack Minore. A clean-up is scheduled for April 24 beginning at 9 a.m. at the Viet Nam Vet's Park. The first Sunday trail ride will be May 2. The bike rides will continue every Sunday through October. The rides leave at 2 p.m. from the Flint Farmers' Market.