Police delay charges in E. Toledo shooting
11/11/2002The Lucas County Prosecutor's Office said yesterday it will work with Toledo police to determine what charges should be filed, and against whom, in connection with a shooting early Saturday in East Toledo
Pedro Garcia, 36, remained in critical condition last night in Medical College of Ohio Hospitals, recovering from multiple gunshot wounds suffered in a domestic dispute in the 1300 block of Oak Street.
No charges have been filed against Mr. Garcia or Chad Leonard, a neighbor who police said apparently shot him in defense of Mr. Garcia's ex-girlfriend, Jennifer Dushane, 19. She was allegedly hit multiple times with a beer bottle by Mr. Garcia and dragged across the street by her hair, police said.
A 45-caliber pistol Mr. Leonard used and a knife he had were recovered by Toledo police, Detective Dan Navarre said yesterday. “I think he was coming to the aid of the female because she was being beaten. He thought he was saving her life,” the detective said.
Kevin Carder, an assistant county prosecutor, said he recommended police hold off filing charges until the prosecutor's office has seen all the facts in the case. Mr. Leonard may have been entitled to use such force to defend the woman, but prosecutors are reviewing the situation, he said.
Mr. Leonard told police he heard a commotion outside his home and saw what he believed to be a rape in progress. Ms. Dushane was partially clothed, screaming for help, and being assaulted by Mr. Garcia, police said.
Mr. Leonard told police he saw a “shiny object” in Mr. Garcia's hand. He said Mr. Garcia threatened to kill him and made threatening gestures.
That's when Mr. Leonard fired several shots at Mr. Garcia, police said. Some hit Mr. Garcia, but at least one went through a bedroom wall in a home.
The detective said Mr. Leonard did not know the couple and has no criminal record. He said the couple has a history of domestic violence.