The retired Florida police captain who fatally shot a man inside a movie theater in 2014 was acquitted of murder by a jury late Friday.
Curtis Reeves, 79, was charged with second-degree murder after he gunned down 43-year-old Chad Oulson during a matinee screening of “Lone Survivor” in suburban Pasco County.
Defense lawyers and prosecutors were in agreement that Reeves asked Oulson to stop texting during the movie previews — which started an argument that ended with the former Tampa police captain opening fire.
Reeves pleaded not guilty on the grounds of self-defense.
His lawyers successfully argued that police training informed Reeves’ decision to open fire, as he believed his life was in danger when the victim threw his cellphone at his face and appeared ready to climb over the seat and attack him.
Reeves “had more knowledge, more experience, more study in that area than anyone in this courtroom,” defense attorney Richard Escobar said. “It’s a dangerous world.”
Prosecutors countered that Reeves’ ego was bruised when Oulson threw popcorn in his face, and there was no real threat.
“In his entire career that is the most he has ever been scared? Absolutely unreal,” prosecutor Scott Rosenwasser said of the former homicide bureau, fugitive apprehension and SWAT team commander.
“He didn’t fear anything.”
Oulson died at the hospital; his wife was treated after being shot in the hand.
Smiling, Reeves embraced family members after a six-person jury sent him home following a 3½ hour deliberation late Friday.
“This is great,” Reeves told The Tampa Bay Times. “It’s been a long eight years. I couldn’t wait for it to be over with.”
The case made national news in 2014 as Reeves claimed he acted in self-defense under Florida’s controversial “stand your ground” law. A judge later denied that claim.
The trial was reportedly delayed due to hearings, motions and COVID-19 restrictions.
With Post wires