You be the judge.
Here is the case:
A car repossessor in Ohio was given the assignment of picking up a car from a preacher. Since he did not have the preacher’s home address, the repo man went to the church during Sunday service and attempted to get the car.
The preacher saw the repo man from the pulpit, left the church, got in his car and started it. He knocked the repo man onto the hood of the car and proceeded to drive around town, reaching speeds of up to 60 mph–with the repo man holding onto the hood.
The preacher eventually went back to the church, where he was met by police officers. He was later charged with felonious assault, kidnapping and abduction.
Arguments:
The preacher told police he initially only wanted to remove his personal items when the repo man jumped on the hood. The preacher said he then feared for his safety and so he drove away. He also argued that it wasn’t right for the repo man to come to the church on a Sunday.
The repo man says the pastor was smiling as he weaved and made sharp moves and also hit the windshield wipers to try to dislodge the man. The repo man also stated, “Is this what Jesus would do?”
What would you decide?
Should the preacher be charged with felonious assault, kidnapping and abduction?
VoteView Results
Verdict:
The preacher pleaded guilty to one count of misdemeanor assault in exchange for the dismissal of felonious assault and abduction charges.
He was on probation for a year, paid a $500 fine and was ordered to undergo an anger management assessment.
The repo man went back to work.
If you have questions especially about injury law, you can talk with the lawyers at Eiland and Ritchie for free. There is no cost until we collect for you. We want to help you get back on your feet.
Allen Ritchie
Personal Injury Attorney