Caesar R. Goodson, Jr., one of six Baltimore police officers charged in the April 2015 death of Freddie Gray, appeared for day four of his trial on Tuesday. During arguments, Goodson's attorney called two medical experts to testify regarding whether Gray's death could be considered a homicide. Photo courtesy of Baltimore Police Department
BALTIMORE, June 14 (UPI) -- Prosecutors on Tuesday continued to lay groundwork for a scenario that involves a rough ride to the police station for Freddie Gray before his death last year, as the defense countered with the dissenting opinions of two medical experts.
In day four of the trial of Baltimore officer Caesar Goodson, prosecutors continued to lay groundwork for their theory, which they believe explains the severe spinal cord injury Gray received before the van arrived at the station.
A prosecution witness testified that he retraced the route the van took on the afternoon of April 12, 2015, with the help of surveillance footage. However, the witness did not say Goodson, the van's driver, had been driving recklessly or dangerously.
When Goodson's attorney asked whether the van made any sudden movements in the video footage, the witness replied, "No, sir."
Prosecutors have argued that Gray sustained his injuries as a result of abrupt movements by the van, and the fact he wasn't buckled into a seat belt in accordance with police policy.
Goodson, 46, is charged with second-degree murder in Gray's death, but two medical experts called by the defense Tuesday questioned whether the detainee's death was even a homicide, as officials ruled last year
Six Baltimore officers have been charged in Gray's death. All have pleaded not guilty. One of the officers was acquitted in the case last month. The rest are scheduled for trial later this year.
Goodson could be sent to prison for decades if he is convicted. His trial continues Wednesday, when prosecutors are expected to call more witnesses.
