TULSA - After nine hours of deliberations, a Tulsa County judge has declared a mistrial in the case of former Tulsa Police Officer Shannon Kepler.
Jurors told the court they could not reach a unanimous verdict for Kepler. The district attorney's office confirmed that the jurors were leaning towards conviction but were not able to unanimously agree.
Kepler is accused of killing his daughter's boyfriend, 19-year-old Jeremey Lake, in August 2014.
He was also charged with two counts of shooting with intent to kill after prosecutors say he fired more shots at nearby witnesses. Jurors found him guilty on lesser charges of reckless conduct with a firearm.
They recommended six months in jail for each charge.
In closing statements, District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler told jurors that Jeremey Lake wasn't armed the night he died.
But Kepler's attorneys say he acted out of self-defense during the altercation with Lake.
Kepler testified saying he thought he saw Lake pull something silver and shiny from his pants.
Kepler's attorney say they do not believe he got a fair trial, claiming that presiding Judge Sharon Holmes withheld evidence that proved a gun was involved.
Sentencing is expected to take place on Monday. Kepler is being held at the Tulsa County Jail with no bond.
According to the district attorney's office, they are expecting to try and pursue a new trial.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Apple and Android and Kindle devices.
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox. Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
