Controversial Shooting Gets Houston Man 40 Years

KHOU TV in Houston reports a man who claimed Texas’ version of a stand-your-ground law allowed him to kill a neighbor in an argument over a noisy party has been found guilty of murder and sentenced to 40 years in prison. Barring a successful appeal, a prison cell much like the one shown below will be his home for at least the next 20 years.

46 year old Raul Rodriguez was so angry about the noisy birthday party next door, that he went over and got into an argument with 36-year-old Kelly Danaher and two other men.

He later claimed the three men attacked him, and to protect himself, he shot and killed Danaher and wounded the two other men.

Rodriguez was charged with murder, but he claimed self defense under a controversial Texas law that allows you to "stand your ground" and defend yourself with deadly force at almost any place you happen to be if you feel your life is in danger.

Rodriguez has a concealed handgun permit, but he also has a reputation for being a hothead with a short fuse.  Harris County prosecutors say the video shows that Rodriguez went next door armed and spoiling for a fight.  The jury didn't buy his claim that his life was in danger.  Several jurors say Rodriguez could have turned and walked away from the argument at any time.

In the wake of this shooting, and the killing of Trayvon Martin under similar circumstances in Florida, several Texas lawmakers say they will try to get the Texas Castle Doctrine law repealed or modified in the next legislative session.

Food for thought, here in a part of the state where so many people have Concealed Carry Permits.  You cannot "unfire" a gun.