The California Department of Justice has released a report concerning the officer-involved shooting of Curtis Barnett, which occurred on July 13, 2022, in Salinas, California. The incident involved officers from the Salinas Police Department and was reviewed under Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), which mandates investigations into officer-involved shootings resulting in the death of unarmed civilians.
Attorney General Rob Bonta commented on the release, stating, “The tragic loss of life in this incident profoundly affects the entire state of California. We recognize the considerable challenges and difficulties faced by all those affected, including Mr. Barnett’s family, the law enforcement agencies involved, and the community at large." He emphasized that "the California Department of Justice is dedicated to collaborating with all law enforcement entities to maintain a legal system that is fair, transparent, and accountable to every Californian."
On the day of the incident, SPD officers responded to a call about a stabbing. They were informed en route that the suspect reportedly had a firearm. Upon arrival at the scene, officers encountered Curtis Barnett emerging from his house with what appeared to be a Tommy submachine gun and a sword. Despite repeated orders from officers to disarm, Barnett advanced towards them while shouting expletives. The officers subsequently shot him. It was later discovered that Barnett's weapon was an airsoft gun.
The DOJ investigation concluded there was insufficient evidence for criminal charges against the officers involved as they acted under reasonable belief of imminent threat. Therefore, no further legal action will be taken.
Additionally, several policy recommendations have been proposed by DOJ to prevent similar incidents in future. These include changes in body worn camera activation policies within SPD and reviewing communication protocols among officers during critical incidents.
A full copy of this report is available for public access.