Updated 10/29/2008 08:57 PM
Jury To Deliberate In Off-Duty Cop Shooting Trial
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A jury will soon began deliberating in the trial of a man accused of killing an off-duty police officer in the Bronx three years ago.
Steven Armento is charged with murder for allegedly shooting Officer Daniel Enchautegui in December 2005 during an attempted burglary in Pelham Bay.
Defense attorney William Flack argued Wednesday that Armento thought he was going to be shot, and had no intent to kill Enchautegui. He said his client did not even know he was an officer.
Patrolmen's Benevolent Association President Pat Lynch refuted that claim.
"This is a murderer who's on trial, who knew he was there to commit a burglary, who knew Daniel was a police officer and made that decision to pull the trigger," said Lynch.
Enchautegui's sister Rosa was applauded by dozens of officers who could not fit into the court room to hear the arguments.
Prosecutors say Armento fired at the officer after he and codefendant Lillo Brancato were approached during an attempted burglary in Pelham Bay.
Brancato Jr., who was an actor on "The Sopranos" and starred in "A Bronx Tale," is being tried separately. His trial is expected to start next month.