Special prosecutor being considered in case of fatal police shooting of Antwon Rose
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Antwon Rose, 17, was shot and killed by East Pittsburgh Police Officer Michael Rosfeld last month, who had been on the job only a few hours. Police officers were reportedly responding to a call of shots fired when they pulled over the car that Rose was riding in.
The family of the slain teen say they are “cautiously optimistic” after Rosfeld was arrested and charged with criminal homicide in the fatal shooting death.
“The family is holding out for a conviction and proper sentencing,” said Lee Merritt, one of the Rose family attorneys.
And now attorney Milton Raiford wants to join the prosecution team in the Antwon Rose case as a special prosecutor and is willing to close up his practice to pursue justice after the teen was shot and killed by a Pittsburgh cop, reports WPXI.
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Raiford said he is ready to team up with Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala
“I said, ‘Mr. Zappala, I don’t believe the people not only need an arrest, they need a conviction, and I know how the courthouse works. You know how the courthouse works and I think I’m your guy to get that conviction,” Raiford said.
Zappala criticized Rosfeld’s release on unsecured bond and was also vocal in saying Rosfeld’s shooting of Rose was both “intentional” and went against normal procedure by not waiting for backup when there were three people in the car.
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Zappala released this statement:
“Milt is someone I like and respect. His practice has involved some of the most serious crimes. His offer will be given thoughtful consideration.”
Raiford said he wants to help bring swift to the Rose family.
“They’re entitled to a quick, vociferous, aggressive prosecution of this police officer. That’s what Antwon Rose’s family is entitled to. Not a compromise, not a delay, not an explanation, not something watered down to protect the actions of this police officer.
“I’m not saying I’m superior to your trial team. I asked (Zappala) to make me a part of the team. I’m not saying I’m all that, I’m just saying, as a black man who’s a father who’s been in law for a long period of time, I want to be in the room where it happens,” Raiford said.
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