Prosecutors said in opening statements that the highest-ranking officer charged in the death of Freddie Gray was criminally negligent when he failed to buckle him into a seat belt or direct other officers to ensure the man's safety.
Baltimore Police Lt. Brian Rice faces manslaughter, assault and other charges stemming from the Gray’s death, whose broken neck in the back of the police van last year sparked riots and upheaval.
Prosecutors told Baltimore Circuit Judge Barry Williams that Rice "wasn't an inexperienced officer" and was well aware of his duty to belt Gray in to secure his safety.
Chief Deputy State's Attorney Michael Schatzow said, "he knew he was obligated to ensure the safety of Mr. Gray. He knew it, and he ignored it."
Meanwhile, the prosecution has dropped one of the charges against Rice.
Before their opening statement prosecutors told the judge they would not go forward on one of two charges of misconduct in office.
That leaves Rice facing four counts: manslaughter, second-degree assault, a different charge of misconduct in office and reckless endangerment.
Rice is one of six officers, three white and three black, charged in the arrest and Gray’s death. Two officers have been acquitted.
