In a case where it appears we currently know little about what actually happened, there are some things we know with certainty. This case is tragic, and it is likely that such tragic results could have easily been avoided. I am often asked to speak to people regarding their legal rights to self defense. I give such a talk at almost every Crossroads Gun Show. I am quick to point out that because the law allows a person to do something does not mean doing it is smart. Indeed, this case highlights my point. Mr. Zimmerman certainly had every legal right to disregard the advice of the 911 operator and follow Mr. Martin through the neighborhood. Mr. Zimmerman even had a legal right to confront Mr. Martin and ask him whatever questions he desired. I bet Mr. Zimmerman now wishes he did not exercise those rights. We don’t know exactly what Mr. Martin did. However, I suspect he could have diffused the situation had he acted differently. I can easily imagine facts that support Mr. Zimmerman’s claim of self defense.

I wonder if Americans are really committed to the concept of being Presumed Innocent. I am wondering why a guy with no prior felony record who was no flight risk was arrested and detained. I don’t believe anyone thinks Mr. Zimmerman would have failed to appear in court pursuant to a summons to appear. I wonder what level of outrage will arise if Mr. Zimmerman is detained with a ridiculously high bond or no bond at all. I wonder if Mr. Zimmerman will receive a fair trial at all. Instead of following the side of people whose skin color most closely resembles yours, let’s agree to follow the evidence and go wherever it leads.