Note: This narrative, which was initially reported in February 2017, is being reissued.
No criminal charges will be filed against the bystander who fatally shot a man assaulting a sheriff’s deputy in Florida.
As reported by the Daily Mail, Ashad Russell has been officially exonerated by the State Attorney’s Office.
At the age of 35, Russell intervened when he saw Edward Strother attacking Lee County Sheriff’s Deputy First Class Dean Bardes on Interstate 75, stepping in to protect the deputy.
Strother, 53, had been pulled over by Bardes for speeding. Following the stop, he allegedly assaulted Bardes, delivering multiple punches and pinning him to the ground.
When Russell exited his vehicle to help, he was armed and possessed a concealed weapons permit.
Recognizing that Russell was armed, Bardes instructed him to shoot Strother. Despite repeated commands for Strother to release Bardes, Russell shot him three times in the neck, resulting in his death.
Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott praised Russell in a Facebook post, stating that Russell was “justified in using deadly force when he reasonably believed that such force was necessary to prevent imminent death or great harm,” as concluded by the SAO after reviewing the case.
The investigation determined that Russell acted to prevent bodily harm to Deputy Dean Bardes or to stop Bardes from becoming a victim of an imminent forcible felony.
Given the findings of this investigation and applicable laws, our agency’s review is concluded, and no further action will be taken.
The Washington Post also noted the dissenting views expressed by the brother of the deceased, Louis Strother.
Louis Strother expressed his belief that his brother did not deserve to die, despite his actions. He acknowledged that his brother made a mistake by attacking the deputy but felt that lethal force was not necessary.
The case sparked a debate about the use of deadly force by civilians in defense of law enforcement officers. Some praised Russell for his quick and decisive actions, while others questioned whether lethal force was the only option.
Ultimately, the State Attorney’s Office determined that Russell’s actions were justified under the circumstances. Russell’s attorney, Spencer Cordell, stated that his client was relieved to have the investigation behind him and was grateful for the support he received from the community.
This case serves as a reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face every day and the potential role that civilians can play in assisting them. It also highlights the complex legal and ethical considerations surrounding the use of deadly force in self-defense situations.
While the outcome of this case may be controversial, it is clear that Ashad Russell’s actions were deemed legally justified by the authorities. The decision not to file criminal charges against him sends a message that in certain situations, civilians can intervene to protect law enforcement officers without fear of legal repercussions.
As this case comes to a close, it is important to reflect on the bravery and selflessness displayed by Ashad Russell in coming to the aid of Deputy Dean Bardes. His actions undoubtedly saved Bardes’ life and serve as a powerful example of the courage and commitment of ordinary citizens in the face of danger.
