On June 11, 2024, the California Department of Justice (DOJ) released a report on the officer-involved shooting of Travis Tarrants in Fontana, California. The incident occurred on April 7, 2022, and involved officers from the Fontana Police Department (FPD). This report is part of DOJ's efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta stated that after a thorough investigation, it was concluded that criminal charges were not appropriate in this case. The DOJ recognized important lessons from the incident and issued specific policy and practice recommendations as required by Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506).
"The California Department of Justice remains steadfast in our commitment to working together with all law enforcement partners to ensure an unbiased, transparent, and accountable legal system for every resident of California," said Attorney General Bonta. "AB 1506 is a critical transparency and accountability tool, and our hope for this report is to provide some understanding and aid in advancing towards a safer California for all. Loss of life is always a tragedy. We acknowledge that this incident posed challenges for all parties involved, including Mr. Tarrants' family, law enforcement, and the community."
The shooting occurred when FPD officers responded to multiple calls about an armed robbery at a bank. Tarrants was shot after pointing what appeared to be a gun at officers; it was later identified as a modified airsoft gun. Under AB 1506 mandates, DOJ investigated officer-involved shootings resulting in unarmed civilian deaths across the state.
DOJ concluded there was insufficient evidence to support criminal prosecution against the deputy involved since he acted with intent to defend himself and others from perceived imminent death or serious bodily injury.
The DOJ has made several policy recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents:
1. **Command and Control**: Develop formal policies guiding how officers should establish command at scenes.
2. **De-escalation**: Revise Use of Force de-escalation policies to include specific tactics such as verbal persuasion and crisis intervention teams.
3. **Situational/Positional Awareness**: Establish policies regarding officer awareness during encounters.
4. **Body Worn Cameras**: Clarify guidelines on body-worn camera usage.
5. **Website Posting of Agency Policies**: Ensure updated policies are posted conspicuously online.
A copy of the full report can be found here.