The La Floresta homeowner who shot a suspected burglar in September has been cleared of all charges relating to the incident.
The shooting occurred in the early hours of September 21, when the homeowner was aroused by an intruder on the grounds of his property.
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According to Mary Martinez, head of Chapala’s Ministerio Publico (state prosecutor’s agency) number two, the shooter was absolved from legal responsibility after a preliminary investigation revealed that he had acted in legitimate self-defense. He was first required to accredit himself as the registered owner of the small caliber pistol used in the shooting and also subjected to forensic test for gunpowder residue to prove that he was the person who fired the weapon.
Martinez indicated that under the law, an individual claiming self-defense in such cases can be held under provisional arrest for a 48-hour period while the matter is investigated. She added that keeping a firearm is not a recommended method for personal defense, advising local residents to avoid potential legal troubles by relying instead on strong physical protections that can help keep thieves from entering their properties.
The alleged perpetrator, identified as Mauricio Guzman Garcia, 45, was initially held in custody at Guadalajara’s Hospital Civil while undergoing treatment for gunshot wounds to his right shoulder and leg. The Ministerio Publico agent said he was later transferred to Chapala’s regional prison to face processing on criminal charges.
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