>>So if he mistakenly initiated something because he felt (incorrectly) he held police power, negates his self-defense defense.
I predict that will, in a nutshell, be the deciding theme of the trial.<<
Of course, the prosecution will have to prove that beyond a reasonable doubt. From the evidence made public so far, it seems very unlikely they can do that.
“Of course, the prosecution will have to prove that beyond a reasonable doubt. From the evidence made public so far, it seems very unlikely they can do that.”
I doubt all the evidence is public.
There is evidence in public, that Zimmerman pursued/followed, called the PD, was warned off, etc. Plenty for the prosecution to weave into the “initiation” necessary to negate self-defense defense.
I think the trial will present the training and authority for a police officer, versus same for a neighborhood watch volunteer captain.
It will be interesting if Zimmerman testifies in his own defense.