Former Pasadena officer takes stand in official oppression trial

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A former Pasadena police officer accused of shooting an unarmed man during a traffic stop was back on the stand today.

Michael Martin faces up to a year behind bars for the charge of official oppression stemming from a shooting back in 2011.

On the stand this morning, Martin answered the prosecutor's questions about how the shooting took place.

The prosecution believes that when Martin pulled over driver Victor Hernandez, he shot at him as he was trying to get away and that there were inconsistencies in the story Martin told investigators.

The defense responded with more questions, asking Martin about having to discharge his weapon on duty, asking him if it was traumatic to him.

"Very traumatic," Martin said..

"Under this kind of stress, did it affect your memory?" asked the defense attorney.

"Definitely," said Martin.

The case is expected to go to the jury later today