Maryland’s highest court shocked many earlier this week when it agreed to hear appeals from five of the six officers involved in the death of Freddie Gray. The rare action, will put the case on ice for an extended period while the court mulls over the different appeals.
In a series of oral arguments, the high court will discuss the constitutional ramifications of Officer William G. Porter testifying against fellow officers, Sgt. Alicia D. White and Officer Ceasar Goodson Jr, the Washington Post reported.
Officer Porter walked away charge-free when his first trial ended in a hung jury last December. And on the heels of his retrial, the state is offering him immunity and the retraction of all witness statements in exchange for his testimony. While it may seem like a good offer, Porter’s legal team is fighting back, saying that the offer violates his Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and threatens his chances of a fair hearing.
The question of whether or not the state’s promise of immunity will also protect Porter from incriminating himself will be taken into consideration as well. Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera has ordered to hear the oral arguments by March 3.
All other dates regarding the case have been delayed. This also halts the trial of Officer Edward M. Nero, who was scheduled to be present for jury selection on Monday.