keeton12/iStock
Former Sonoma Sheriff’s Deputy Charles Blount is testifying in his involuntary manslaughter trial. Blount defended his actions that lead to the death of 52-year-old David Ward saying in part “I think I de-escalated the situation.” He called Ward’s death a “tragedy” but said that his actions were justified based on what was known at the time. The vehicle that Ward was in was reported stolen by Ward and he never told authorities he’d recovered it. Blount said he was shocked to learn that Ward was the owner of the vehicle. More testimony will come today and closing arguments are expected on Monday.