Teen Suspect in Ricky Pearsall Shooting Feels “Very Sorry,” Lawyer States

In a notable turn of events, the 17-year-old suspect implicated in the shooting of San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall appeared in court on Wednesday afternoon. The teenager expressed genuine remorse through his defense attorney during his first appearance at the Juvenile Justice Center in San Francisco.

The suspect was present for a hearing where the judge is to determine whether he will face charges as an adult. During the proceedings, the boy looked straight ahead, failing to acknowledge the parents who sat behind him, including his mother who requested a Spanish interpreter to follow the proceedings.

Following the hearing, Deputy Public Defender Bob Dunlap addressed the media, disclosing that his client, a high school senior with no prior offense history, was remorseful about the shooting incident. “He’s very sorry, genuinely, that this did happen, as is his family,” Dunlap noted. “Our thoughts go out to the Pearsall family and Mr. Pearsall himself.”

Dunlap emphasized that he could not yet comment on the specifics of the allegations as he was still waiting to review all available evidence. He mentioned that he had seen a police report and some video footage, expressing eagerness to obtain more information that could clarify the events surrounding the incident.

The suspect, who resides in Tracy—approximately 60 miles east of San Francisco—faces a series of serious charges, including attempted murder with an added allegation for discharging a firearm, assault with a semiautomatic firearm, and attempted second-degree robbery. He is also charged with carrying a loaded firearm, having a concealed firearm, possession of a handgun as a minor, and property damage.

The incident occurred on Saturday in Union Square, where Pearsall was shot in the chest during a confrontation with the assailant who allegedly attempted to rob him. Eyewitness cellphone footage captured first responders carefully taking Pearsall to an ambulance. Reports indicate that a single bullet entered Pearsall’s right side before exiting through his back, narrowly avoiding vital organs.

In a twist during the altercation, the suspect was also shot in his left arm by his own gun. Fortunately, he reportedly did not suffer any serious injuries from that gunshot.

San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins has stated that the investigation is looking into the suspect’s background, which could impact decisions related to the case, including whether he should be charged as an adult.

After Wednesday’s hearing, Dunlap expressed hope that the juvenile court will maintain jurisdiction over the case. “I’m certainly hoping that they don’t do that. I think that my client should be treated as a juvenile,” he asserted. Dunlap elaborated that while this is a serious matter, transferring the case to adult court is uncommon for situations like this.

Dunlap praised District Attorney Jenkins for emphasizing that the status of the victim should not influence prosecutorial decisions. “This is obviously a serious case, a shooting, and the media scrutiny certainly puts a spotlight on it, but the focus should remain on judicial fairness and the details of the case,” he added.

Legal analysts contend that whether the case gets transferred to adult court hinges on various factors, including the minor’s criminal background and the nature of the offense. Dr. Lisa Hill, a criminal justice professor at Cal State East Bay, pointed out that while the act may seem serious, it doesn’t necessarily indicate the juvenile’s maturity level to stand trial as an adult.

According to Hill, the question lies in the potential for rehabilitation before reaching the age limit of 25 for juvenile court. “It’s essential to examine what resources juvenile court has for rehabilitation,” she mentioned.

A probation officer had suggested transferring the teen to San Joaquin County for an unrelated charge. However, Judge Roger Chan ruled that the suspect would remain in custody in San Francisco, with the next court date set for Tuesday at 1:30 p.m.

In the meantime, Pearsall has returned to the 49ers’ facility, displaying a remarkable recovery less than three days post-shooting. General manager John Lynch remarked on Pearsall’s incredible progress, affirming the team’s expectations for his return this season, albeit starting on the non-football injury list to allow adequate time for recovery.

“He’s going to need that time physically, emotionally, and mentally,” Lynch noted, adding optimism for Pearsall’s future contribution to the team.

“It’s by the grace of God that Pearsall is back with us so soon,” Lynch commented, reflecting on the situation.

Source: CBS News