Deputy's Fatal Shooting of Black Man Deemed Justified

A Georgia sheriff's deputy will not face criminal charges for fatally shooting a Black man during a 2023 traffic stop that escalated into a violent struggle. The district attorney who reviewed body camera footage and other evidence in the case concluded that the use of deadly force was justified.

The victim, Leonard Cure, 53, had been exonerated in 2020 after serving 16 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. He was killed just three years later during a traffic stop for speeding.

During the stop, Deputy Buck Aldridge ordered Cure to exit his vehicle and used a stun gun when Cure refused to comply. Body camera footage showed Cure resisting and grabbing at Aldridge's throat, prompting the deputy to fire his weapon.

District Attorney Keith Higgins stated that the use of deadly force was justified given the circumstances. However, attorneys representing Cure's family maintain that Aldridge used excessive force and are pursuing a federal lawsuit against him and the then-sheriff.

Cure's tragic death has sparked outrage and calls for accountability. His family and legal team are determined to seek justice for his wrongful killing.