He's a policeman that was charged for murder, killing a man in the line of duty. But tonight, Constable Burton Caliz is breathing easier, the charge was reduced to manslaughter and tonight he is free on bail. On February 12, 2004, Caliz is accused of fatally shooting Leroy Pilgrim in the San Juan area of San Pedro. Pilgrim was killed by a single bullet which hit him behind the ear. After the incident and much agitation from Pilgrim's family, Caliz was originally charged with manslaughter. The DPP later upgraded it to murder. But today in the Supreme Court Crown Counsel Kamar Henry told the court her office is reverting on its position, and reducing the charge from murder to manslaughter. She told the court that after reviewing the case file, she didn't find any evidence that Caliz intended to kill Pilgrim.
Caliz was defended in court by Richard "Dickie" Bradley. He pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and was released on $8,000 bail. His trial begins on November 27th.
