Wednesday, July 18, 2012

ATHENS, Ga. (AP) -- Lawyers for a man accused of gunning down a police officer in Athens are objecting to a shock device he's forced to wear during court appearances.

Jamie Hood's attorneys say the device, which is operated by remote control and can deliver an incapacitating shock, is inhumane. The Athens Banner-Herald reports Hood's lawyers argued against use of the device in a court motion this week.

Superior Court Judge David Sweat was to hear arguments Wednesday afternoon about whether to remove the device.

Clarke County Sheriff Ira Edwards says he sanctioned the use of the device because he deemed Hood an escape and security risk.

Hood is charged with the March 2011 shootings of officers Elmer "Buddy" Christian III and Tony Howard. Christian was killed and Howard was seriously wounded.

(Copyright 2012, The Associated Press)