BALTIMORE — After the first trial in the Freddie Gray case ended with a deadlocked jury, prosecutors and defense attorneys could go in a number of different directions as they decide what steps to take next.
Both sides were to meet behind closed doors Thursday in Judge Barry Williams’ chambers.
“There’s a lot for the defense and the prosecution to be thinking about at this point,” says University of Maryland Law professor Doug Colbert.
Officer William Porter still faces charges, including manslaughter, in connection with Freddie Gray’s death in April.
Colbert says prosecutors will likely push for a retrial, leaving Porter with a choice.
“Porter will be in a position where he and his lawyer must at least consider negotiations toward a possible plea, or to seek immunity in exchange for his testimony,” says Colbert.
Porter also could decide to head back to trial and risk being convicted on some or all charges against him.
Five other officers are set to be tried in connection with the case, with the next trial slated to begin in early January.
It is unclear whether the situation surrounding the mistrial will affect the schedules of the other trials.
