Alleged Cop Killer Argues Self-Defense

The man accused of killing a State Trooper in Grundy Center plans to argue he acted in self defense at trial, according to KWWL. Michael Lang has been charged with First Degree Murder, Attempt to Commit Murder, and Assault on a Peace Officer in connection to the shooting death of Sgt. Jim Smith last April. The incident happened after Lang, a former candidate for Sheriff in the county, assaulted a Grundy Center police officer after a chase following an attempted traffic stop. Lang then barricaded himself inside his home and shot Smith when he and other troopers entered the house. Lang’s trial has been moved to Hamilton County from Grundy County.