HOUSTON, Texas — Dramatic body camera video from the infamous Harding Street raid was shown in court Monday as the second full week began in the murder trial of former Houston police narcotics officer, Gerald Goines.
That body camera video, complete with dozens of gunshots, shouts, groaning and other sounds, was just one of the exhibits shown.
Goines is charged with murder in the deaths of Dennis Tuttle and Rhogena Nicholas.
The married couple in the late 50s, along with their dog, were killed in early 2019 after officers burst into their home using a “no-knock” warrant Goines secured.
Prosecutors contend that the warrant was based on lies by Goines portraying the couple as dangerous drug dealers.
However, the defense pointed out Monday that other drug evidence was found inside the home along with several weapons, some of which were shown to the jury.
But a detective who investigated the shooting testified that there was no evidence of a "drug operation" inside the home.
The detective also testified that there was no evidence of unlawful use of force when the raid went down.
That's something the defense drilled down on.
But prosecutors argued the Tuttles were simply defending themselves against whoever was bursting into their home.
A community organization called “We The People Orgnize” sprouted from this incident and representatives are among those attending the trial day after day.
"And so, we decided we would make sure the people would get justice," said Jeff Reese with "We the People Organize." So, we’re here representing the families. They can’t be here but we can. So here we are and hopefully something good will come out of the trial.”
Last week, one of Goines’ attorneys admitted her client lied to get the search warrant, But she said his actions do not merit a murder conviction.
This trial is expected to last at least four weeks.