Independent Investigation Concludes Unintentional Discharge, Citing Training and Equipment Deficiencies
In a highly anticipated decision, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officer William Jones Jr. will not face criminal charges in connection with the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old girl in 2021. The decision stems from a thorough and independent investigation into the incident, which occurred at a Burlington Coat Factory store in North Hollywood.
The probe revealed that Officer Jones’s unintentional discharge of his high-powered rifle stemmed from a combination of training and equipment deficiencies within the LAPD. The investigation further determined that the use of deadly force by Jones was not objectively reasonable under the circumstances.
Tragic Events and Investigative Findings
- On December 23, 2021, Officer Jones responded to reports of an armed suspect inside the Burlington Coat Factory.
- Upon arriving at the scene, Jones, equipped with a rifle, entered the store and proceeded towards the suspected threat.
- In the midst of the search, Jones discharged his rifle three times, mistaking a 14-year-old girl in a changing room for the armed suspect.
- The investigation determined that Jones’s decision to use lethal force was not justified based on the information available to him at the time.
- The inquiry also highlighted inadequate training protocols within the LAPD, particularly in the proper use of high-powered rifles during active shooter situations.
- Additionally, the examination found deficiencies in the LAPD’s equipment, specifically the lack of less-lethal crowd control options.
Recommendations for Change
While Officer Jones was cleared of criminal charges, the investigation emphasized the need for immediate and systemic reforms within the LAPD to prevent similar tragedies in the future. These recommendations include:
- Overhaul of LAPD’s training programs to enhance officers’ decision-making abilities and emphasize the use of less-lethal force.
- Investment in equipping officers with non-lethal crowd control devices.
- Establishment of an independent body to oversee LAPD investigations involving use-of-force incidents.
The family of the victim has expressed disappointment with the decision not to charge Officer Jones but commended the investigation’s findings. They stressed the importance of implementing the recommended reforms to ensure no other family suffers a similar loss.
LAPD Chief Michel Moore acknowledged the investigation’s conclusions and pledged the department’s commitment to implementing the recommended changes. He emphasized the LAPD’s dedication to fostering a safe and just community.
The incident has sparked renewed discussions about police training, use of force, and the need for comprehensive reforms to address systemic issues within law enforcement agencies.
