Is self-defense a right?
Question by Paul B: Is self-defense a right?
While performing a work task, a very volatile co-worker became so upset with me that he began to scream in my face and “belly-bump” in the same fashion a head coach of a baseball team occasionally does to an umpire in professional baseball. He was screaming in a manner to intentionally spit in my face. I didn’t have a route of escape, and he wasn’t stopping. I thought for sure he was eventually going to hit me. After he expressed about five insults, I did what I felt I had to do to stop his assault on me. I took a swing at his chin that missed, so my assault on him was unconsummated.
Only minutes prior to the above assault, the co-worker broke the rear window of an SUV work-vehicle during another tantrum. The above assault occurred after I inquired how the window got broken.
I truly feel as though I acted purely out of self-defense. Is self-defense a right?
I’ve been removed from my current work position because of this incident. The termination or continuance of my employment is being considered by the corporate ombudsman. I’ve been removed from my position in the field (Afghanistan). I was making about $ 156k a year. If my employment does continue with the company, I’m facing positions outside of the ISAF theatre that pay substantially less. I don’t know how much the next position is going to pay, but it is estimated to be about $ 110k or less. I’m concerned my reputation has suffered due the incident. I’m 37 and the other man is 56! He acted like a twelve year-old. Not that it really matters in the case, but he didn’t look that old to me. I’m afraid my reputation in the company and prospects for advancement are limited too. Although my supervisor is assuring me that I will still remain employed with the company, he is recommending a counseling that will be filed into my employment record. I’m also afraid that I may not be able to find comparable employment, if I get “let go” from this job.
His mouth was eye level to me while he was yelling, spitting and belly-thrusting. I’m about 5’10″ and 190 lbs. He’s about 6’2″ and a lean 240 pound wrench turning generator mechanic.
I’m in Dubai now. I’m on my way back to the U.S. and plan to speak with a lawyer when I return. For now, if someone could please help me settle my nerves, I’d really appreciate it.
Best Regards,
Paul
Best answer:
Answer by Meta Fictitious
It sounds like you were in the right, Paul. You were in a threatening situation, and felt that if you didn’t take measures to protect yourself, you would have sustained injury. The gentleman was clearly invading your personal space and acting in an uncontrolled manner. I believe the disciplinary measures the company took against you were wrong and could easily be legally contested. Hopefully you and your lawyer will be able to easily sort out this mess.
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