SHEBOYGAN, WI (WHBL) - Were the acts of Dorian Torres against his father intentional or provoked?
During day four of his trial Thursday, Dorian Torres took the stand in his own defense. He admitted he struck his father Emilio several times with a mallet at the apartment they shared back in January of 2014, causing Emilio’s death.
Where the prosecution and defense differ is why Dorian took those actions.
During closing arguments, District Attorney Joe DeCecco said the evidence shows Dorian intended to kill Emilio for not allowing him to do what he wants. He added Dorian’s actions of wrapping up and hiding his father’s body, lying about what happened and acting as he did before Emilio was found by Sheboygan Police should prompt a guilty verdict of first-degree intentional homicide.
Defense Attorney Raj Kuman Singh said Dorian was the victim in the incident. He points to testimony from Dorian and brother Vicente Martinez, describing Emilio had physically disciplined them in the past with slaps to the head and straps to their backside when they misbehaved.
Dorian testified Emilio was doing the same prior to striking his father.
Judge Terence Bourke will announce his ruling at 9:15 Friday morning. Dorian is charged with first-degree intentional homicide, but Judge Bourke could find him guilty of second-degree intentional homicide or not guilty due to self defense or adequate provocation due to Emilio’s alleged actions.