Kentucky State University Shooting: Jacob Bard Lee Acquitted After Grand Jury Declines to Indict

A grand jury in Frankfort, Kentucky, has declined to indict Jacob Lee Bard, the 48-year-old man accused of fatally shooting a student and injuring another at Kentucky State University (KSU) on December 9. The decision, known as a 'No True Bill,' was made after the jury determined there was insufficient evidence to pursue murder or first-degree assault charges. Bard's attorney claims that the grand jury found his actions to be in self-defense, effectively ending the prosecution under Kentucky law. The incident occurred when a group of 20 to 30 individuals, some of whom were not students, allegedly attacked Bard's son in his dorm room. The family was relocating their son at the time, and Bard claimed he was acting to protect his family after being alerted to the danger. According to Bard's lawyers, the group, which wore masks and coverings, attacked his son and Bard was struck while trying to intervene. In the chaos, Bard allegedly shot two individuals who were viciously beating his son. While some have questioned Bard's actions, his lawyers maintain that he was 'completely justified' in using deadly force to protect his family. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some calling for further investigation and others supporting Bard's actions. The incident has highlighted concerns about campus safety and the handling of violent incidents on university grounds.