Freedom for Philly Gay Bash Victim
A Philadelphia man who defended himself against an attempted gay bashing and then was subsequently charged with manslaughter when he killed one of his would-be attackers, has had charges against him dropped.
Municipal Judge Gerard Kosinski ordered the release of 21-year-old aspiring singer Lucas Dawson. Dawson told police that seven people began taunting him, chasing him down and beating him as he walked to catch a bus Oct. 29. He said he pulled out a small knife and waved it, but when Gerald Knight, 17, punched him, he stabbed him in the chest.
Knight died within the hour.
"He did the only thing he could do, the only thing in his power to stop the attack," defense attorney Kevin T. Birley said.
Dawson called police after the attack and led them to the knife. Assistant District Attorney MK Feeney praised him for turning himself in to police, but said a jury should decide if his actions were self defense. She had not decided if she would appeal.
The day before the attack, Dawson had performed at an audition for the FOX television program "American Idol" his family said. He was eliminated after the third round.
Posted by bernie at November 10, 2005 4:41 PMTrackBack
Hey Bernie, thanks for the update. I haven't heard anything in the Philly news yet about him being releasef from jail and the charges being dropped. I'm glad the justice system saw this incident for what it was and this man's life won't be ruined by living his life in prison. Though i'm sure his life will be changed forever as a result of being attacked as well as his actions in response. I'm glad he did what he did as it sends a clear message that we are not just victims and that sometimes the attacker can be the victim.
Where did you find the update on Lucas Dawson?
Posted by: Absolutelee at November 11, 2005 9:42 PMim glad the judge made the decision that he did...the hope is that more states become more compassionate with regards to prosecuting individuals who are bent on terrorizing members of the GLBT community.... of course it will only come when our organizations and individuals lobby the halls of congress and state legislatures across the country....
Posted by: P. Alonzo Harris Jr. at November 12, 2005 2:14 PMfirst of all let me tell all of yall something!!! my cousin did not attack anybody!!! and if it was up to me, his ass would have been in jail!!! because of his actions we've lost someone. can any of yall bring him back? justice hasn't been served!!!
Posted by: S. Middleton at June 4, 2006 9:25 PM