A judge ruled Tuesday that the jury can consider a lesser charge in the case of a Miller Place man accused of fatally shooting a teen.

A judge told the jury that they could decide to convict John White, 53, of misdemeanor reckless endangerment in the second degree. However, the jury can only consider that charge if they find White not guilty of manslaughter.

White is accused of killing 17-year-old Daniel Cicciaro. Prosecutors say White purposely shot Cicciaro in the face. However, White testified that his gun accidentally fired in a confrontation with Cicciaro. White says Cicciaro and his friends were threatening to kill his son and shouting racial slurs in his driveway in August 2006.

A conviction of misdemeanor reckless endangerment carries less than five years. A conviction of manslaughter carries a five to 15-year sentence.

The jury heard summations of both sides Tuesday. Jurors will begin deliberations Wednesday.

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