Exclusive: No Charges Against Officer Who Killed 14-Year-Old Girl in Store
No criminal charges will be filed against a Los Angeles Police Department officer who opened fire at a suspect inside a clothing store, killing a 14-year-old girl who was hiding and praying with her mother in a dressing room, the California Attorney General’s office announced.
The Tragic Incident Unfolds
Attorney General’s Decision: No Criminal Charges
Officer William Dorsey Jones Jr. fired three times as officers responded to a Burlington department store in the San Fernando Valley, where 24-year-old Daniel Elena Lopez had brutally attacked two women on Dec. 23, 2021. Despite the tragic consequences, the California Attorney General’s office, led by Rob Bonta, made the decision not to pursue criminal charges against the officer involved.
Heartbreaking Loss of Life
The case surrounding the tragic incident was particularly challenging, as it led to the loss of two lives. AG Rob Bonta expressed his condolences, emphasizing the tragedy of the situation. “Any loss of life is a tragedy, and my heart goes out especially to the family of Valentina Orellana Peralta,” he stated.
Girl’s Innocent Involvement and Devastating Outcome
Valentina Orellana Peralta, the 14-year-old girl, tragically lost her life while simply being in the wrong place at the wrong time. The officer, Jones, fired three times, mistakenly thinking officers were responding to an active shooter. The suspect, it was later revealed, carried a heavy bike lock, not a firearm.
Controversy and Grievances
Following the incident, there was significant controversy and public outrage over the officer’s use of force. Despite a civilian review board ruling that the shooting violated department policy, the decision on whether the officer’s actions were justified remained contentious.
Official Findings and Recommendations
The state Department of Justice’s investigation concluded that while the first shot was deemed justified, the subsequent rounds were not in line with department guidelines. The DOJ recommended updates to the police department’s communication training to better handle similar situations in the future.
Legal Battles and Pending Lawsuit
While the officer remains with the LAPD, the victim’s family has pursued justice through legal means. A civil suit was filed in 2022 against the department and Officer Jones, alleging inadequate training and supervision of responding officers. The lawsuit is currently pending.
Conclusion: Unintended Tragedy and Ongoing Proceedings
The Department of Justice’s report on the shooting highlighted the unintended and unforeseeable nature of the fatal shot that struck Valentina Orellana Peralta. Criminal charges were not pursued due to the nature of the incident. As legal proceedings continue, the community grapples with the heart-wrenching consequences of that fateful day.