Judge rules trial of Brooklyn MDC guard who shot at smugglers’ car will exclude evidence of jail violence.

In a significant ruling, a federal judge has determined that the violent reputation of the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn will not be permitted as a defense strategy in a trial involving a former correction officer accused of shooting a passenger in a BMW after a chase. Judge Pamela Chen made this decision during a hearing concerning former Correction Officer Leon Wilson, who faces serious charges, including deprivation of rights under color of law and use of a firearm in a violent crime.

Judge Chen’s ruling came after defense attorney Jeffrey Greco attempted to introduce evidence regarding the conditions within the MDC, referring to it as one of the most dangerous detention centers in the country, overwhelmed by contraband smuggling. The judge interrupted Greco’s argument when prosecutors objected to the inclusion of this context, stating that such evidence was not relevant to the specific actions of Wilson on the night of the incident.

The incident in question occurred on September 4, 2023, when Wilson, while on perimeter duty, fired upon a BMW after the vehicle allegedly attempted to deliver contraband items, including cigarettes and drugs, into the facility. After Wilson positioned his Bureau of Prisons van in front of the BMW, the vehicle tried to escape, prompting him to pursue and subsequently fire several shots, wounding one of the passengers.

While Greco argued that Wilson acted out of a perceived threat when an individual in the BMW appeared to brandish a weapon, Assistant U.S. Attorney Raffaela Belizaire countered, emphasizing that Wilson had no lawful authority to chase the vehicle or use his firearm. Belizaire characterized Wilson’s actions as a series of poor decisions that not only abandoned his duty but posed a significant danger to the community.

The trial is expected to focus on the actions taken by Wilson and the circumstances that led to the shooting, rather than the broader issues of violence and contraband at the MDC. Chen cautioned the defense against suggesting that the violent atmosphere was a common occurrence at the facility, indicating her intention to keep the focus strictly on the case at hand.

As the trial progresses, the nature of the evidence presented will likely shape the outcome and public perception of accountability among correctional officers within the federal system, especially in facilities fraught with issues of safety and contraband.