The testimony underscored the urgency and gravity of the situation, with Best stating that every gunshot potentially resulted in loss of life.
During the trial, it was revealed that Peterson arrived at the building and took cover nearby with his weapon drawn, only 73 seconds before the shooter reached the third floor.
Peterson remained in his position for approximately 40 minutes. A witness, Armen Borghei who was a student at Parkland, observed Peterson below with his gun drawn but saw no attempts made to approach the building.
Peterson faces serious charges, including seven counts of felony child neglect.
He is the first law enforcement officer in the United States to face legal consequences for alleged inaction during a school shooting.
To secure a conviction, prosecutors must establish that Peterson legally acted as a caregiver to the juvenile students, and then prove whether he made a reasonable effort to protect them. The outcome of this trial will have far-reaching implications for the responsibilities and accountability of law enforcement officers in similar situations.
