Kyle Rittenhouse Verdict

On Friday November 19th, 2021 Kyle Rittenhouse was acquitted on all counts after the fatal shooting in Kenosha on August 25th, 2020. 

Rittenhouse was facing counts of First-Degree Reckless Homicide, 2 counts of First-Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety, First-Degree Intentional Homicide, Attempted First-Degree Intentional Homicide, Possession of a Dangerous Weapon by a Person Under 18, and Failure to Comply with an Emergency Order from State or Local Government.

The conclusion of the trial was determined by the final 12 members of the jury that were randomly selected by Rittenhouse himself by drawing names out of a tumbler. During the trial, Rittenhouse even stepped up to the witness stand. 

“I didn’t do anything wrong, I was defending myself,” Rittenhouse told the court while breaking into tears.

For many, this trial showed the mass division in political stances throughout the whole country. While the defense team pleaded self defense, the prosecutors stated there was no justification for actions that took place during riots in Kenosha, Wisconsin. No matter what though, the case has been settled.

President Biden gave his own opinion on the acquittal saying it will, “leave many Americans feeling angry and concerned, myself included.” He continued, “I stand by what the jury has concluded. The jury system works, and we have to abide by it.”

What is next for Rittenhouse? 

“He has to get on with his life the best he can. I think eventually some anonymity will come back to it. I don’t think he’ll continue to live in this area. I think it’s too dangerous,” his defense attorney Mark Richards said outside of his office. 

Since the conclusion of the trial, Rittenhouse has done interviews with news stations giving further elaboration of his own perspective.