SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – A former Savannah Police Department officer pleaded not guilty to murder Tuesday during an arraignment in a Chatham County court.
Ernest Ferguson faces felony murder and seven additional charges in the June 2022 shooting death of Saudi Lee.
This case has stirred strong emotions and raised questions about police accountability.
Bodycam footage shows Ferguson firing four shots at Lee in the back during a chase in Carver Village.
That footage is expected to play a big role in the case, as prosecutors argue it contradicts Ferguson's claim that Lee was a threat and cite his prior arrests.
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Meanwhile, Ferguson's defense says he acted out of fear for his safety and is not a threat.
Chatham County District Attorney Shalena Cook Jones weighed in on the case a few weeks ago.
"We consider the bodycam footage to be a critical piece of evidence in this case," she said, adding, "I do want to remind the public there are no statute of limitations on a homicide."
Some key details to note from the case are that prosecutors say Lee is a legal gun owner and was running away unarmed when shot. Feguson's defense claims he acted on a perceived threat.
The former officer has a history of arrests, including robbery, shoplifting and DUI.
This case has sparked a lot of emotion, with Lee's family still seeking justice more than two years later.