The man charged in the deadly Kentucky State University shooting has been cleared by a grand jury.
A Franklin County grand jury refused to indict Jacob Bard on Tuesday afternoon. Bard was charged with murder and assault after police believed he killed 19-year-old De’Jon Darrell Fox Jr., and injured another student, who has since been released from the hospital.
Bard posted 10% of his $1 million bond Tuesday morning and learned hours later that he no longer faces charges in Franklin County. His attorney, Jonathan Danks, said that the money will be refunded.
“This outcome is the justice system working, and so we’re thrilled for Jacob and his family that he’s been vindicated,” Danks said.
Defense claims self-defense
Police reported that the events of Dec. 9 on KSU’s campus began as a physical altercation.
Earlier testimony revealed that Bard asked campus security to escort his family to and from the dormitories after his son reported incidents of being assaulted by another group.
Danks described video evidence that allegedly shows nearly 30 people attacking the Bards moments before the shooting. He said that according to Kentucky law, someone can use deadly force to protect themselves or another person if the threat of great bodily harm or death is present.
Danks said the likelihood of being indicted when the state seeks charges is extremely high. Bard maintained self-defense.
“What we believe really made a difference was the video that captured the altercation because it gives a very, very clear look that this was an act in self-defense,” Danks said.
Prosecutor not surprised by outcome
Commonwealth’s Attorney Larry Cleveland stated that he presented the entire case to the 12-member grand jury. That included security videos of the events leading up to the shooting.
After three hours of testimony and deliberation, the jury returned a no true bill.
Cleveland said he was not particularly surprised by the outcome and had been conflicted about the case from the beginning.
“Very conflicted about the case from day one. Felt that Mr. Bard could meet the requirements of the defense of others, but at the same time, a young man was killed, and another young man was seriously injured,” Cleveland said.
Investigation continues
While Bard has no pending charges in Franklin County, Cleveland said the investigation into the shooting is not over.
“There were many participants in this event; some of those could still face criminal charges for the activity that they participated in that day,” Cleveland said.
Cleveland said the group that allegedly attacked the Bards is among those who could face charges.
By Madison Porter, WKYT.com
