Detroit Guard Avoids More Jail Time in 2014 Death

A Detroit judge has decided against additional jail time for security guard Lucius Hamilton, 61, in the death of McKenzie Cochran at a shopping center in 2014. Cochran, who repeatedly stated, "I can't breathe," died of asphyxiation during an encounter involving five guards. Hamilton, who pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter, received a sentence of two days, with credit for time already served, notably lighter than the anticipated 90 days.

The decision follows the acquittal of three other guards involved in Cochran's death by an Oakland County jury in August. Defense attorney Mohammed Nasser, highlighting Hamilton's remorse and willingness "to resolve this matter," believes this swayed Judge Martha Anderson's decision. The case, initially closed by local prosecutors, was reopened in 2020 after George Floyd's death, though race was not alleged as a factor in Cochran's case.

During the incident, security was called as Cochran threatened a jewelry store owner, leading to a contentious struggle. Defense lawyers argued that the guards acted to protect patrons by subduing Cochran. An expert for the defense claimed Cochran could have been detained in 30 seconds but did not comply. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)