LA News Center
Unveiling the Tragic Details
A grieving family has filed a lawsuit against Los Angeles County authorities, alleging that deputies used excessive force in a fatal shooting last year. Arturo Cernas, a 34-year-old man struggling with homelessness and mental illness, was shot and killed by sheriff’s deputies in August 2023. [Image of Arturo Cernas, taken from LA News Center]
The Fateful Event
According to the Sheriff’s Department, deputies responded to a disturbance call at a gas station in Carson. Witnesses reported Cernas behaving erratically and shouting at the pumps. When deputies arrived, they noticed a gun handle protruding from his pocket.
Following their instructions, Cernas initially knelt on the ground with his hands visible. However, he later began reaching into his bag and pockets, including the one containing the BB gun. It was during this movement that deputies deployed a bean-bag round and simultaneously opened fire, striking Cernas multiple times.
Discrepancies and Questions
Video footage of the incident shows that while Cernas initially complied with deputy orders, his subsequent movements did not appear to pose an imminent threat. His family’s attorney alleges that the deputies failed to de-escalate the situation and used lethal force unnecessarily.
“He was no threat to the officers,” said Luis Carrillo, the family’s attorney. “We’ve got three poorly trained sheriffs who resorted to deadly force without justification.”
A Mother’s Heartbreak
Cernas’ mother, Beatriz Loera, is seeking justice for her son. “I just want justice,” she said. “They took him away from me when he needed help. He deserved a chance to get better, not to be executed.”
Department’s Response
In a statement, the Sheriff’s Department expressed its sympathy and stated that it is investigating all aspects of the shooting. The department claimed that any deputy-involved shooting undergoes a rigorous review process, including an analysis by the Inspector General and the District Attorney’s Office.
However, the family’s lawsuit raises concerns about the lack of proper training and the use of disproportionate force by deputies. As the investigation unfolds, the community awaits answers and accountability for Cernas’ untimely death.
Data sourced from: ktla.com
