It Seems Self-Defense Is Legal in California

I'm sure the DA hates that. Contra Costa DA Declines to Charge Orinda Shooting Suspect

This is about a road rage incident in September.

The driver passed the 4Runner – which was moving slowly and moving off to the right side of the road — but [Scott] Decker responded by pulling in front of the driver’s car and blocking his path. Decker then exited his vehicle and punched the driver three times in the face while the driver was sitting in his vehicle.

It was the last thing he would do, as the driver was a legal, registered firearms owner, with a concealed carry license in California. He drew a handgun and fired one shot. Scott Decker died at the scene from a gunshot wound to the neck.

Contra Costa County is basically suburban San Francisco. The county line is about 4 miles east of downtown Oakland, or about 12 miles east of downtown San Francisco. The County includes the city Walnut Creek.

Why do I say the DA hates self-defense?

The entire incident was captured on video by a camera in the driver’s vehicle, which he consented to provide to law enforcement.

So with video evidence, that he was attacked, it still took from 12 September 2024, until January 8th for the DA to decide that he couldn't win a prosecution. I believe that any consideration of Justice never entered into the decision. DAs like to win, and the hate legal self-defense, especially in Blue States.

Contra Costa County is basically suburban San Francisco. The county line is about 4 miles east of downtown Oakland, or about 12 miles east of downtown San Francisco. The County includes the city Walnut Creek.