A federal case could be brought against neighborhood-watch volunteer George Zimmerman, experts say, even though he already has been acquitted on state second-degree murder charges.
But the chances of success are limited and such a move could be seen as being politically motivated, those experts have told WND.
The 5th Amendment to the Constitution says, in part, "nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb."
Officials with Attorney General Eric Holder's Justice Department have not formally announced whether they will pursue civil rights charges against Zimmerman for the death of Trayvon Martin.
But the questions about double jeopardy already are being discussed.
Pete Lepiscopo, a constitutional law attorney, says that the federal government can try someone again for a case already decided in state court.
"If the U.S. Attorney General empanels a federal grand jury to seek violations of federal criminal statutes based on violations of Mr. Martin's civil rights, this would not constitute double jeopardy under the U.S. Constitution," he said.
http://www.wnd.com/2013/07/fed-case-against-zimmerman-very-unlikely/
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