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Prosecutor urges mid-range sentence, citing prior guilty pleas and public-safety concerns
Summary
In punishment-phase closing, the prosecutor highlighted the defendant's prior guilty pleas and the danger posed by gun violence near public areas, urging jurors to impose a middle-range sentence to deter others and reflect community harm.
In closing argument on punishment, the prosecutor (Mr. Bradford) asked jurors to consider Freeman's prior guilty pleas and the circumstances of the offense when setting punishment. Mr. Bradford emphasized community safety and deterrence, telling jurors, "These jury breaks matter... It matters in a couple of respects" and stressing the potential for gunfire to harm children at a nearby park.
The prosecutor suggested jurors exclude the highest penalties while also reserving the lowest terms for defendants with little or no criminal history. He repeatedly urged the jury to consider a sentence above the minimum in light of Freeman's record and the circumstances of the crime, and to decline imposing a fine as part of punishment.
