A blind man in Florida who was acquitted after shooting his friend to death under Florida’s “stand your ground” law got his guns back on Thursday, according to WESH Orlando.
Police confiscated both of John Wayne Rogers’ guns when he was arrested for shooting a friend in the chest during a fight in his Geneva, Fla. home in March 2012. He was granted immunity after citing Florida’s “stand your ground” law in January.
Rogers fought to get his weapons back in court after his acquittal.
“It’s my constitutional right. I wasn’t carrying these firearms around. I was in my house on a private road in Geneva out of the way,” Rogers said, explaining that he needs guns for protection.
Judge John Galluzzo reluctantly ordered authorities to return Rogers both of his firearms, a 10mm Glock and a rifle, even though he said he didn’t want to.
“I have to return property that was taken under the circumstance,” Galluzzo said. “I have researched and haven’t found case law to say otherwise.”
The judge did not let Rogers have his ammunition back, however. Galluzzo said it was old and dangerous.
Rogers was also on probation four years ago for shooting 15 rounds at his cousin, according to Gawker. He was also in jail three years ago for punching a woman in a domestic disturbance.
