Wayne County Prosecutor Kim Worthy announced that charges are being filed against Theodore Paul Wafer in the shooting death of Renisha McBride. The prosecutor announced he is being charged with second degree murder, manslaughter, and possession of a firearm during the attempted commission or commission of a felony.
The community has been patiently awaiting the outcome of this investigation conducted by the Dearborn Heights Police Department and evaluated by the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. Often, many of us are very anxious and impatient when it comes to justice being equally applied in every situation. The shadow of Trayvon Martin and his untimely and what many believe unnecessary death in the state of Florida, continues to haunt many in the African-American community.
This particular case had the appearance that it might have been headed down the same road. While no trial has been held, and Wafer has yet to be brought before the court, anxiety is still high as the jury is still a long way out. Let us all remember that we are still very in the preliminary stages of this matter. We are pleased that the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and the Dearborn Heights Police Department stood together as they brought charges against Mr. Wafer. This is a healthy sign of unity in both communities.
The declaration of the intoxication of McBride on the night of her death to many is a major distraction. It is unfortunate that some in the news media have chosen to give more headlines to her intoxication as opposed to the tragic termination of her life. This smells to some like a lack of sobriety should justify homicidal impropriety. Intoxication is no justification for reckless and irresponsible shooting and ultimately destroying a life. A very viable life! One should be able to seek help from his neighbor, whether sober or intoxicated. The law in this case has been applied to the facts as we know them at this time.
We support the efforts of both the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and those of the Dearborn Heights Police Department, in the acquisition and the administration of justice in this most tragic situation. We believe that justice will be served in this matter as we continue to monitor this situation.