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Ex-Reserve Deputy's Manslaughter Trial Begins Under Strict Court Rules

KWGS News File Photo
/
KWGS

The second-degree manslaughter trial of a former Tulsa County volunteer sheriff's deputy is under way, although the courtroom was locked.

Robert Bates has pleaded not guilty in the April 2015 shooting death of Eric Harris during an undercover gun-sale sting.

Following opening statements Wednesday, Judge William Musseman called a recess, and during the recess the courtroom was locked.

Harris' brother, Andre Harris, said those outside the court were told they couldn't re-enter because the jury had returned. Sheriff's Deputy Lance Ramsey, who led the operation that ended in Harris' shooting, was to testify.

During opening statements prosecutors showed a video that included Harris' shooting by Bates.

Defense attorneys said Bates mistakenly pulled his weapon instead of a stun gun and the shooting is justifiable homicide.