Scot Peterson charged in Parkland shooting, experts worry about criminalizing ‘cowardice’ - The Washington Post

"Scot Peterson, the only armed officer stationed at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School during last year’s shooting, was arrested Tuesday, charged with failing to protect the students.

Peterson’s actions — or lack thereof — quickly earned him the nickname “the Coward of Broward” County. But legal experts and officials are seriously pondering whether “cowardice” should be criminalized.

The 11 charges filed against him, condemning his non-action during the shooting in Parkland, Fla., have quelled public outrage and offered some victims’ families closure and vindication.

Lawyers and those in law enforcement, however, are surprised by the unprecedented case the state has chosen to pursue and skeptical about whether the prosecution will be successful...."