There is a rash of 'Didn't do nothin' defenses offered up, and some claim this proves that black Americans have something wrong with them.  Can't they tell right form wrong, thug-life from real-life?
This is not about race.
In the gangster movies, wasn't there some old Italian matron, weeping as they took her 'good boy' away?
I see no difference.
There is an underlying social thing working here:  The 'good boy' never killed, beat or robbed anyone in his own family.
Just like the Cheer-leaders Dad that hides bodies after an accident, the crimes done by your family against others can be forgiven.  Right?
I mean, if he killed grandpa, you might turn him in.
Killed a total stranger?  There would be a debate about the cover story.