Massachusetts State Trooper To Argue Self-Defense In Assault

The lawyer for a Massachusetts State Police trooper who allegedly assaulted and kidnapped his girlfriend in New Hampshire says he is going to argue self-defense.

In court Thursday, the attorney for Sgt. Bryan Erickson says he’ll be filing a motion in the next few weeks.

“I’ll be asserting self-defense on behalf of Mr. Erickson,” defense attorney Hank Brennan said during the hearing.

Erickson, who has pleaded not guilty, remains jailed without bail in New Hampshire. He was recently indicted by a grand jury. Trial has been tentatively set for November.

The Boston Herald reports the prosecutor estimated he would bring six to seven witnesses. Brennan said he has identified 15 potential witnesses.

“I think the defense is going to present a substantial case,” said Brennan.

A police affidavit alleges that Erickson, of Groveland, Massachusetts, assaulted his 29-year-old girlfriend in Exeter in January and then fled at high speed.

He has been suspended from his job without pay.