There has been a gripping exchange of questions and answers as Crown Attorney Milan Rupic cross examines PC James Forcillo at his trial for the shooting death of Sammy Yatim. The media are reporting this compelling extract:
“In your mind, officers are entitled to bark orders and make demands and expect people to follow, and you were amazed when someone didn’t follow,” said the Crown.
“Police officers are entitled to choose what they think will work best in a particular situation,” Forcillo contended.
“Your job is not to win but to resolve the situation with the least amount of force necessary,” Rupic later went on.
“My job is to get the situation resolved,” Forcillo said firmly. “But one way or the other, Mr. Rupic, I’m going home that night.”
Rupic also said that Forcillo intended to kill Yatim when he fired nine times.
“Are you suggesting that firing nine bullets at somebody is not likely to kill him?” Rupic asked.
“I fired the bullets at him because I thought he was a threat to my life,” Forcillo said.
“I’m asking if you knew you were likely to kill Sammy Yatim,” Rupic asked.
“I am not considering whether these bullets are going to kill him. I’m considering whether or not they’re going to stop him.” The trial continues Monday
