United States v. Peterson

United States Court of Appeals, District of Columbia Circuit, 1973.

483 F.2d 1222.

Dressler, pp. 453-458

 

Facts: Peterson and the victim had an argument outside Peterson’s home.  Peterson went into his house and got his gun.  The victim got a lug wrench from his car and approached Peterson with it raised.  Peterson told the victim to stop or else he would shoot.  The victim didn’t stop, and Peterson shot and killed him.  Peterson was tried and convicted for second-degree murder and manslaughter.  He appealed on the basis of two jury instructions that he objected to.

 

Issue: Did Peterson have a valid justification of self-defense?

 

Rule:

 

Analysis:

 

Conclusion: The defendant’s conviction is affirmed.

 

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