Oral arguments began on Wednesday in the civil case against the former Huntsville police officer convicted of murder in 2021.
Ben Darby, a former officer with the Huntsville Police Department (HPD), was sentenced to 25 years in prison for the 2018 murder of Jeffrey Parker.
Bodycam evidence showed Darby responding to the call, where Parker had pointed a flare gun at his own head.
Two officers were already in the residence, attempting to reason with Parker and talk him down. Darby entered the home, armed with a shotgun, and demanded that Parker drop the gun. After giving two commands, Darby fired on Parker, killing him.
The district attorney presented the case to a Madison County grand jury, and Darby was indicted for Parker's murder. He was sentenced to 25 years in prison in August of 2021.
Parker's family filed suit against Darby and the city of Huntsville, claiming wrongful death and excessive force.
On top of the suit arguing against the shooting itself, the defense also points to arguments supporting Darby by HPD officials and Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle.
Huntsville has petitioned to be removed from the civil suit, but the judge has not rendered a decision.
While the civil suit is ongoing, the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals has scheduled oral arguments on Nov. 10 for Darby's appeal of his murder conviction.
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
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