Alabama AG Argues Against Immunity for Ex-Cop in Fatal Shooting

The Alabama Attorney General's office is fighting to ensure a former Decatur police officer faces trial for fatally shooting a man during a vehicle repossession dispute. They're pushing back against the officer's claim of immunity.

Attorney General Steve Marshall's office argues that the lower court was right to deny former officer Mac Marquette immunity.

"Stand Your Ground" Claim Rejected

Marquette had sought immunity under Alabama’s "Stand Your Ground" law, arguing he feared for his life. The case revolves around the 2023 shooting of Stephen Perkins outside his Decatur home.

The Night of the Shooting

In the early hours, Marquette and two other officers accompanied a tow truck to repossess Perkins' truck. Bodycam footage shows Perkins emerging with a gun pointed toward the truck driver. Marquette then fired 18 shots in two seconds, killing Perkins. This sparked massive protests in Decatur.

Appeal and Conflicting Accounts

A judge initially denied Marquette's immunity request, but an appeals court found the initial assessment lacking. Now, the AG's office argues that, regardless of whether Marquette feared for his life, questions remain about whether he was lawfully present at Perkins' home.

Assistant AG Kristi Wilkerson highlighted inconsistencies in testimony from the other officers. One claimed they were investigating a menacing charge, while the other believed they were simply there to keep the peace. Crucially, Alabama law requires a court order for law enforcement assistance in a repossession, which the officers didn't have.

Investigator Raises Doubts

State investigator Jamie King also gave conflicting testimony, suggesting the officers were poorly positioned and had remained hidden until moments before the shooting.

Jury to Decide

Marquette's attorneys argue there's no single "correct" way for officers to operate. However, the AG's office maintains a jury should evaluate the credibility of the evidence. If Marquette loses his appeal, he's scheduled for trial in September.