On Wednesday, the Justice Department announced that it is collecting feedback from Americans for its investigation into whether or not to file civil rights charges against George Zimmerman.
Zimmerman, a 29-year-old self-appointed neighborhood watch captain, was acquitted of second-degree murder on Saturday in the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin back in February 2012. Zimmerman shot the unarmed teen in a gated community in Sanford, Fla. after he claims the two got into a confrontation. A decision to clear Zimmerman of all charges by an all-female and predominantly white jury has sparked protests around the country.
Department of Justice officials stated that this unusual move comes "because of interest in this matter." People can e-mail Sanford.Florida@usdoj.gov to share their opinion on how the department should proceed, reports the Washington Post. However, it is unclear how much influence the feedback will have on the decision, which federal officials declared will be made by "experienced federal prosecutors."
According to the Huffington Post , the DOJ is currently reviewing the case to see whether it could bring civil rights charges against Zimmerman. However, experts doubt that such charges are warranted under the law.
The department opened an investigation into Martin's death last year which they paused in order to allow the state prosecution to proceed.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Justice Department said the criminal section of the civil rights division, the FBI and the U.S. Attorney's office for the Middle District of Florida are continuing to evaluate the evidence generated during the federal probe. In addition, they are examining the evidence and testimony from the state trial.
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