New Jersey Veteran Acquitted of First Degree Murder

Jury Acquits New Jersey Veteran of First-Degree Murder in Virginia Self-Defense Case

Martinsville, Virginia — July 17, 2025 — In a major courtroom victory, Daniel Rouleau, Esq. of Rouleau Law, PLLC secured a not guilty verdict for his client, Takai Brodie, a U.S. Army veteran from New Jersey, who had been charged with first-degree murder in connection with a 2024 shooting in Martinsville.

After a multi-day jury trial, the panel returned a unanimous verdict after 45 minutes of deliberation in favor of Mr. Brodie, finding that he acted in lawful self-defense when he used deadly force against Marquise Waller, a convicted violent felon found armed inside his residence with a round chambered and a gun near his hand.

“This case was never about murder,” said defense attorney Daniel Rouleau. “This was about a lawfully armed man, a veteran, walking into a dangerous and volatile situation — and making a split-second decision to protect himself and others. He was not a perpatrator promoting a plot, but a man who met the moment. The jury did the right thing.”

“The law in Virginia is clear: you have a right to defend yourself — and a right to bear arms,” Rouleau added. “Mr. Brodie is grateful the truth came to light.”

This case highlights the power of a strong defense, particularly when forensic evidence and self-defense law intersect. Mr. Brodie was released following the verdict.

Media Contact:

Daniel Rouleau, Esq.

Rouleau Law, PLLC

Serving Danville, Martinsville, Patrick County, Henry County, and surrounding areas