Umar Zameer Flashcards
Umar Zameer
A man charged with the alleged murder of a Toronto police officer.
Const. Jeffrey Northrup
The Toronto police officer who died after being struck by a vehicle.
First-degree murder
The charge Umar Zameer faced for the death of Const. Jeffrey Northrup.
Conditions for Police Officers
In relation to a first-degree murder charge, if the accused knew or was wilfully blind to the fact that the victim was a police officer carrying out their duties, it is automatically considered first degree.
Resemblance to Suspect
Umar Zameer did not resemble the suspect description given by the stabbing victim.
Events Leading to Death
Umar Zameer allegedly drove directly at Const. Jeffrey Northrup, causing the officer’s death.
Crown’s Argument
The Crown argued that Umar Zameer intentionally drove at Northrup, causing his death.
Testimony of Officers
Three police officers testified that Northrup was standing with his hands raised when he was run over.
Police Forensic
Indicated that Northrup was side-swiped and knocked down by the car before being run over.
Defence’s Argument
The defence argued that Northrup’s death was a tragic accident and not a crime.
Issue with Sgt
Defence lawyers suggested that Sgt. Forbes embellished her account of the events leading to Northrup’s death.
Criteria of Verdict
Jurors had to believe beyond a reasonable doubt that Zameer deliberately hit Northrup with the intent to kill or cause bodily harm.
Verdict
Umar Zameer was found not guilty of all criminal charges, including first-degree murder and manslaughter.
Case Issues
Concerns were raised over the prosecution’s changing theory of the events leading to Northrup’s death.
