Intent is key issue in Reese trial

PORTER COUNTY, Ind. (WISH) - Since IMPD Officer Jason Fishburn doesn't remember the events of July 10, 2008, the prosecution has to use other witnesses to prove its case.

A case that hinges on one issue, did Brian Reese intentionally try and kill Officer Fishburn?

IMPD Detective Jeffrey Wood of the violent crime unit took the stand on Thursday.

He’s the officer who arrested Brian Reese on July 10, 2008. He told 24-Hour News 8 Anchor David Barras what he remembers about that tragic day.

"It was an emotional night. I spent a lot of time at the hospital it was hard to go to sleep that night. And now, with this, I’ll probably sleep a lot better, said Wood.

Wood testified that after hearing gunshots he saw Brian Reese come out from between two houses on Euclid Avenue with a gun in his left hand.

Marion County Prosecutor Carl Brizzi said Reese appeared to be surprised, he didn’t expect other officers to be there.

Detective Wood and another detective at the scene Steven Scott opened fire on Reese, each saying they feared for their lives.

One of the bullets hit Reese in the shoulder. Detective Wood found Reese on the ground against one of the houses on Euclid Avenue and made the arrest.

The defense however countered Wood’s testimony by making a point it has been making throughout the trial.

The defense contends, while Reese had a gun he never shot it at any of the other officers.

The trial is not expected to wrap up until early next week.