Attorney General's News Release

February 2, 2006

Lincoln County deputy charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter

Troy, Mo. — The Attorney General’s Office today filed two felony counts of involuntary manslaughter in the first degree against Nicholas Forler in connection with the deaths of Michael Brown and Tyler Teasley. The charges allege that Forler (DOB: 11-21-79), a Lincoln County sheriff’s deputy, recklessly caused the deaths of the two men on Oct. 23, 2005, by shooting them.

The Attorney General’s Office was appointed as special prosecutor to determine if criminal charges were warranted after the Lincoln County Prosecuting Attorney recused himself from the matter.

"My office conducted an exhaustive review of the evidence before determining whether to bring charges, and what charges to file," Attorney General Jay Nixon said. "A judge and jury in Lincoln County will now see and hear the evidence and be the next to speak on this matter."

Involuntary manslaughter in the first degree is a class C felony under Missouri law, punishable by up to seven years in prison and a $5,000 fine. The charges against Forler are merely accusations, and as in all criminal cases, the defendant is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818