Freddie Gray Case: Verdict Coming in Officer Nero Trial

BALTIMORE, MD – The verdict in the trial of Officer Edward Nero is expected to come in the next week.

Nero, 30, of Bel Air, is charged with second-degree assault, reckless endangerment and two counts of misconduct in office related to the detainment of Freddie Gray.

Gray was taken into custody April 12, 2015, and died a week later from an injury prosecutors allege he got in a police van.

Nero opted for a bench trial, meaning Judge Barry Williams will determine the verdict rather than a jury.

The trial will have run its course within little more than a week's time: Proceedings started on Thursday, May 12, and the prosecution rested its case on Monday, May 16.

Since the defense wrapped up its case Wednesday, May 18, each side will have 45 minutes to present closing arguments on Thursday, May 19, according to WBAL.

Judge Williams is expected to deliver a verdict on Monday, May 23, WJZ reports.

See Also:

• Witnesses to Freddie Gray Arrest Speak at Trial for Officer Nero
• Freddie Gray Case: Seatbelt, Arrest Questioned in Officer Nero Trial
• Officer in Freddie Gray Case Opts for Trial by Judge
• Bel Air Resident is Among 6 Officers Charged in Freddie Gray Case
• Officer Charged in Freddie Gray Case Challenges Claims

The case has gained national attention because of its connection to the unrest in Baltimore.

After Gray’s funeral in late April, riots erupted in parts of the city, requiring the National Guard to help restore calm.

Days later, Baltimore State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby announced charges, ranging from misconduct in office to murder, against six officers: Officer Caesar Goodson, Officer William Porter, Sgt. Alicia White, Officer Garrett Miller, Lt. Brian Rice and Nero.

Nero is the first to stand trial in the Gray case since Officer William Porter, whose proceedings ended in a mistrial in December.