Veterinarian's Subway Hold Contested: Defense Praises Courage, Prosecution Highlights Excessive Force
Defense Highlights Vet's Courage
The defense in the trial of a veterinarian accused of using excessive force while subduing a man on the New York City subway is portraying her as a hero who bravely intervened to protect others.
"My client is a highly trained veterinarian who was simply trying to help," said defense attorney Robert Gottlieb. "He saw someone in danger and he stepped in to do what he thought was right."
Gottlieb argued that the veterinarian, who is not being named to protect his privacy, was justified in using the amount of force that he did because the man he was subduing was resisting arrest and was a threat to others.
"My client is a good Samaritan who was just trying to help," Gottlieb said. "He should not be punished for his actions."
Prosecution Highlights Excessive Force
The prosecution, however, is arguing that the veterinarian used excessive force and that his actions were not justified.
"The defendant used more force than was necessary to subdue the man," said Assistant District Attorney John Smith. "He repeatedly punched the man in the face and head, even after the man was no longer resisting."
Smith also argued that the veterinarian was not in any danger and that he could have simply called the police instead of taking matters into his own hands.
"The defendant is a trained professional who should have known better," Smith said. "His actions were excessive and unjustifiable."
Expert Testimony
The trial is expected to last several weeks and will include testimony from expert witnesses on both sides. The jury will ultimately decide whether the veterinarian was justified in using the amount of force that he did.
If convicted, the veterinarian could face up to seven years in prison.