A Colorado Springs jury acquitted a U.S. Army Green Beret who shot and killed an intruder in his garage, The Gazette reported.
Michael Galvin, 35, was found not guilty of negligent homicide in the November 2015 death of Robert Carrigan, who was shot three times in the back after trying to escape through Galvin’s garage door.
Attorneys argued whether or not Galvin’s actions were justified under the “Make My Day” law, which protects homeowners who use deadly force on intruders who could cause them harm.
Galvin’s actions were questioned because the shooting occurred in a detached garage at his home, and the “Make My Day” law is limited to dwellings.
The District Attorney’s Office argued that the “Make My Day” law did not apply.
Prosecutors said Galvin confronted Carrigan at night inside the garage after finding his bicycle lying on the ground outside.
The defense argued that Carrigan lunged for Galvin’s pistol, forcing Galvin to defend himself.
“I think the jury sent a clear message today that if someone is coming onto your property and is stealing things, you have the right to shoot them,” Defense Attorney Jeremy Loew told KRDO. “You have the right to defend yourself or your family, and your property.”
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