Florida Judge Kenneth Lester believes George Zimmerman is no threat to the community and has set his bail at $1M.
“This court does not fear that the defendant would pose a threat to others in the community if released,” wrote Judge Lester in his decision reports NBC.
Today’s ruling is the second time in recent months that Judge Lester granted the gunman bail. On June 1, Zimmerman’s bond was revoked and he was ordered back to jail where he spent the last month.
Although Zimmerman can go free upon paying 10% of his bail, Judge Lester hasn’t forgotten his deception – particularly withholding a second passport and information about a hefty bank account. Judge Lester wrote, “By any definition, the defendant has flaunted the system.” He also said Zimmerman “manipulated” the system for his own benefit.
This time around Zimmerman will be forced to check in with the Florida pre-trial release department every 48-hours in addition to abstaining from alcohol, criminal activity and contact with Trayvon Martin’s family. Zimmerman is also forbidden from obtaining another passport and he must stay away from the Orlando-Sandford airport. He will also not be allowed to leave Seminole County without special authorization. Furthermore, Judge Lester will place Zimmerman under electronic monitoring at his own expense.
Zimmerman is charged with second-degree murder for shooting and killing 17-year-old Trayvon Martin on February 26.
There’s no word on when a trial may begin.
