READING, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — A police officer in Reading is facing a manslaughter charge after he reportedly shot a man during a call in 2018.
Prosecutors say Officer Erik Drauschke fatally shot Alan Greenough after finding him hiding in a car following a domestic violence call and search.
Drauschke plead not guilty to the manslaughter charge during an arraignment on Wednesday, as his attorney claims that he fired in self defense.
Attorney Peter Pasciucco said Greenough refused to take his hands out of his pockets and approached Drauschke, demanding that he be shot.
"The evidence will clearly show that he acted consistent with his training and he acted in proper self defense," Pasciucco said.
The Middlesex District Attorney's office said Greenough did have his hands in his pockets, but he was not armed and did not pose an immediate threat. The office argues that Drauschke did not follow department policy.
A judge agreed to release Drauschke without bail under personal recognizance, but he must surrender all firearms to law enforcement.
The next hearing for the case is set for Dec. 3.
WBZ NewsRadio's James Rojas (@JamesRojasWBZ) reports.
Follow WBZ NewsRadio:Facebook|Twitter|Instagram|iHeartmedia App
(Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio)