Deputy cleared of responsibility in Parkland school shooting tragedy

Former Broward County Deputy Scot Peterson has been acquitted of felony child neglect and other charges for failing to act during the 2018 Parkland school shooting. This marks the first trial in U.S. history of a law enforcement officer for conduct during an on-campus shooting. Peterson, who wept upon hearing the verdict, had been accused of failing to confront the shooter and protect the students. The jury deliberated for 19 hours over four days before reaching their decision. Peterson, who has maintained that he would have confronted the shooter if he had known where the shots were coming from, expressed relief at getting his life back and hopes to one day sit down with the Parkland parents to tell them the truth. However, some parents believe Peterson prioritized his own safety over the students' and have no interest in meeting with him.