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U.S. Marshal On Trial In Los Angeles Man's Fatal Shooting

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Trial has begun for a deputy U.S. marshal who fatally shot a Los Angeles man in an alley after a night of drinking.

Matthew Itkowitz's federal trial began Tuesday with jury selection. Opening statements are expected Wednesday.

Itkowitz has pleaded not guilty to civil rights violations and obstruction of justice.

Prosecutors say Itkowitz and his wife were walking home from a bar in 2008 when they began fighting. Prosecutors say 26-year-old Ryan Gonzalez intervened when Itkowitz's "hysterical and crying" wife ran for help.

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U.S. Marshal Who Shot, Killed Man After Drinking Investigated

Itkowitz acknowledged shooting Gonzalez, citing self-defense. Gonzalez was shot five times.

Federal authorities charged Itkowitz after local prosecutors decided against it, saying they couldn't prove it wasn't self-defense. Federal prosecutors argue Itkowitz was acting "under color of law," saying he identified himself as police before shooting Gonzalez.

(© Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

 

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