Casper Man Cites New Wyoming ‘Stand Your Ground’ Law

CASPER, WY. (AP) — A Casper man charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of another man has asked a judge to throw out the case, citing a Wyoming’s new “stand your ground” law.

The attorney for Jason T. John argues that the new law, which became effective July 1, means his client should not have been charged with the August death of Wesley Willow in Casper and the case should be dismissed.

In the filing, attorney Tim Cotton also indicates that Willow attempted to assault John and John acted in self-defense by shooting Willow nine times. John has pleaded not guilty in the case.

District Attorney Dan Itzen told the Casper Star-Tribune that he did not believe John was statutorily entitled to a dismissal hearing on the grounds cited by Cotton.

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Information from: Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune, http://www.trib.com