An ex-Oklahoma volunteer sheriff's deputy who fatally shot a restrained and unarmed man has waived his right to a preliminary hearing.
Defense attorney Clark Brewster told The Associated Press Friday that his client, Robert Bates, waived his right because the basic facts of the case are not in dispute. The former Tulsa County Sheriff's Office reserve deputy has pleaded not guilty to second-degree manslaughter in the death of Eric Harris on April 2.
Bates declined to comment outside of court Friday. He is next due in court July 6.
The 73-year-old reserve has said he confused his stun gun and handgun when he shot Harris, who ran from authorities during a sting involving gun sales.