When someone is shot in the head, the family and friends of the victim want justice.
The problem comes in trying to define it.
William Proctor died the day he turned 21 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.
His friend, Dylan Weiler, 18, supplied the gun during a party in which all had been drinking, and he supplied the fervor, egging and daring Proctor to play Russian roulette.
Police charged Weiler with manslaughter. The State Attorney’s Office dropped the charge.
Essentially, the SAO determined Proctor was the older of the two, Proctor had familiarity with the game and no matter what egged him on, Proctor spun the cylinder, put the gun to his head and pulled the trigger. He killed himself.
Wieler’s family was outraged that he was charged. Proctor’s family is outraged the charge was dropped.
But, really, when does get being held responsible for another’s decision?
If I convince you to try hanggliding, knowing the dangers, and you die, am I responsible?
If my stockbroker convinces me to buy stocks that later tank, is he legally responsible? Should he be?
We all make bad choices. We all give bad advice.
Who do you think should be accountable here?
