Popcorn Murder Trial — Curtis Reeves (Part 4)

On January 13th, 2014, 71-year old Curtis Reeves went to see a matinee showing of Lone Survivor with his wife of 47 years, Vivian. Curtis and Vivian arrived at the Grove theater, located in Wesley Chapel, Florida, and snagged prime seats in the back row of the theater.

The lights dimmed, and the previews started. Curtis couldn't enjoy them, though, because of the bright light shining in his face. The light was coming from the cell phone of Chad Oulson, a 43-year old man sitting in the row in front of Curtis.

Curtis asked the man to turn his cell phone off.

The man didn't. 

15 minutes later, Chad Oulson would be dead.

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In this episode, we discuss whether Curtis is a reliable witness.

We compare statements he made immediately after the shooting to police to the testimony he gave during his trial. We also compare his testimony to what other witnesses said.

Can Curtis be trusted? Was he really in fear for his life when he shot Chad Oulson?

Or, was Curtis drawing on his 27 years of law enforcement experience when he said he was 'afraid for his life'? Was Curtis really afraid, or did he just know the right thing to say?