Fred Is on Trial for Aggravated Battery for Severely Beating

Fred is on trial for aggravated battery for severely beating George with a pool cue. The defense investigator discovered the following facts:
· Fred has the reputation of being a timid person who avoids physical confrontations.
· On three incidents in the past, Fred has stepped in to help the victim of unprovoked attacks.
· George has the reputation of being a bully.
· George has been involved in numerous bar fights, all of which he provoked. Can the defense introduce evidence that Fred has previously attempted to intervene in fights on behalf of the victim?

A) Yes, the defense can introduce evidence of prior acts that are relevant to the issues in this case.
B) Yes, this can be admitted as character evidence.
C) No, the defense can introduce character evidence only if the prosecution called character witnesses.
D) No, the defense can only introduce evidence directly related to the issue of whether Fred committed the crime charged.