The California Department of Justice has released a report concerning the officer-involved shooting of Samuel Arredondo in Joshua Tree, California. The incident, which occurred on January 11, 2023, involved deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department. According to the report released by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, the investigation found that criminal charges were not appropriate in this case.
“This was a tragic situation with a tragic outcome,” stated Attorney General Bonta. He expressed hope that the report would provide the community and Mr. Arredondo’s family with the answers they have been waiting for. Bonta emphasized the department's commitment to partnership with law enforcement to ensure justice is accessible to all.
The shooting happened when deputies responded to a call regarding Mr. Arredondo, who was reportedly harassing a woman and attempting to break into her house. When a deputy arrived, Arredondo had broken a window and disregarded the deputy's orders, raising a black object and yelling “Die.” The deputy shot at Mr. Arredondo. A second deputy also fired at him when Arredondo took a shooting stance at the corner of the window, leading to Arredondo's death from his injuries.
Under Assembly Bill 1506, which mandates DOJ investigation of officer-involved shootings resulting in civilian deaths, the DOJ reviewed this incident thoroughly. The investigation concluded insufficient evidence existed to prove the deputies acted without the intent to defend themselves and others from a perceived imminent threat.
The report includes five policy recommendations for the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department. Suggestions involve updating dispatcher communication protocols, ensuring isolation of officers involved in shootings before interviews, prohibiting witnesses from communicating with each other before giving statements, installing digital in-car video systems, and revising the body-worn camera policy.
The full report can be accessed for further details.