Steve Perkins' family says Friday was a small victory. Former Decatur police officer, Mac Bailey Marquette, was charged with murder in the deadly police shooting of Steve Perkins.
The family says their faith has kept them going these past three months.
District Attorney Scott Anderson shared the grand jury prayed before hearing the details of the case. Steve’s brother, Nick, says he truly appreciates that.
“I’m happy...I’m happy. One small victory for the bigger picture. I was telling Mr. Anderson that I relayed the information to my mother this morning, and she had tears of joy and sorrow. My brother's sorrows can’t be returned. He can’t come back home. But there is joy knowing that we have got a small victory in the interest of justice for Steve," said Nick Perkins.
Nick Perkins continued, saying, “Baby steps. This is another small victory. That’s all we can take right now. You know you can’t get everything in one full swoop. We will take small victories the way we can. I don’t celebrate anybody’s downfall. But you do have to answer for your actions. You always reap what you sow. I’m happy. I’m happy. One small victory for the bigger picture."
Steve's widow, Catrela, says she is glad that Marquette was charged with murder, but she is not happy that his bond was just $30,000 and he was released from jail shortly after being booked.
Typically, it takes 10 percent of a bond amount to get out, so Marquette would only have had to come up with $3,000 to get out.
Catrela Perkins told WAAY 31, “I’m happy that they have an indictment for murder, but I think the bond amount is ridiculous. $30,000 for murder? No, that's terrible to me.â€
We asked Catrela if Friday's indictment is justice. She answered, “No, not at all, not even close.â€
Her message to the community of people who have rallied behind her family is, “It’s still the same. I definitely appreciate all the support and prayers. In 2024, it's time to keep going until we get the justice that Steve deserves.â€
The family of Steve Perkins and the community honored his life and 40th birthday with a party, on Saturday at 6 p.m.
They also hosted a community panel full of families who have lost loved ones at the hands of police. The panel began at noon Saturday at the Princess Theater.
