This article was originally published on GoErie.com by Lisa Thompson on May 18, 2016

ERIE, Pa. — An Erie man has been cleared of all charges that he shot at and attempted to kill another man in May 2015.

An Erie County jury heard the case against defendant Robert C. Blankenship during a three-day trial before Judge William R. Cunningham and Monday declared Blankenship not guilty on all counts — attempted homicide, aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person, propulsion of missiles, criminal mischief, disorderly conduct and possessing the instrument of a crime.

Blankenship, 45, of the 3900 block of English Avenue in southeast Erie, had been charged after Erie police said an argument erupted into gunfire.

Blankenship was accused of firing two shots from a 12-gauge shotgun at a Chevrolet Blazer in the 3900 block of English Avenue shortly before 9 p.m. on May 7, 2015.

Some pellets hit Sean Spinelli in the left leg, police said.

Erie lawyer Eric Hackwelder successfully argued at trial that Blankenship acted in defense of himself and others.

Hackwelder said the defense maintained that Spinnelli assaulted some people on the property and then left saying he was going to get a gun.

Whether you’re the target of a criminal investigation or you’ve already been charged, it’s important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. For an immediate response and an aggressive courtroom attorney to get you the results you need, contact Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox in Erie, PA. For emergencies call 814-882-1972. 

Charged with a crime? Contact Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox in Erie, PA to get started today.