SC judge rejects ‘stand your ground’ defense in teens death

LEXINGTON, S.C. (AP) — A judge has rejected a ‘stand your ground’ defense for the suspect in the stabbing death of a Lexington County teen last year.

Multiple media outlets reported that Circuit Judge Thomas Russo has ruled that Kierin Dennis cannot use that defense in the stabbing death of Da’Von Capers in a restaurant parking lot.

Dennis is charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

Dennis has said he feared for his life because Capers was trying to enter his SUV. Russo wrote that the claim is “not credible.”

Russo had heard from more than 20 witnesses to the deadly encounter during a hearing in November.

Defense attorney Todd Rutherford said the ‘stand your ground’ issues can be raised in an appeal if Dennis is convicted.