FL Sheriff: Deputy Acted In Self Defense When Shooting Machete-Wielding Man

A Florida sheriff says one of his deputies acted in self-defense when fatally shooting a man with a machete.

On Oct. 27, Martin County Deputy John Welliever told dispatchers he was going on foot patrol. Within minutes, he allegedly reported that shots had been fired.

A second deputy arrived at the scene as Welliever was giving CPR to 46-year-old Jerry Richardson. Richardson, who was black, was shot five times.

During a news conference on Monday, Sheriff William Snyder said the deputy has spoken to the state attorney's office and remains on administrative leave. 

The case will be presented to a grand jury to determine whether Welliever will face criminal charges.

Welliever's race wasn't immediately available.


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