The law enforcement veteran discusses the re-charging of three officers in the death of Mario Gonzalez – and why it’s a futile, political move.
Over the past couple of years, some Los Angeles officials have made their disdain for police very clear. Between the hiring of illegal immigrants to monitor the streets and other key decisions that have gone against officers, it’s clear there’s animosity present.
However, a recent case has resurfaced that indicates just how unfairly some officers are being treated.
According to the Los Angeles Times, three Alameda police officers have been re-charged with involuntary manslaughter for the death of Mario Gonzalez back in 2021. The officers are being accused of causing “physiological stress of altercation and restraint” when attempting to keep Gonzalez, who was in a drunken state, from hurting others.
The previous District Attorney, Nancy O’Malley, had closed the case without charged after examining the video footage of what the officers had done to contain Gonzalez’ behavior. However, new District Attorney Pamela Price has presented the case again, and is moving forward with the return of these charges.
The camera footage shows that the officers acted professionally, even looking out for Gonzalez. However, Price doesn’t seem convinced.
Alison Berry Wilkinson, a lawyer who represented all three officers at the time, called their re-charging a “blatantly political prosecution.” She also noted, “The officers’ actions while taking Mr. Gonzalez into custody were reasonable, necessary, and lawful, and his tragic death was the result of drug toxicity, not criminal misconduct.”
Joining us now to discuss the matter is Michael Letts, a law enforcement veteran with over 30 years of experience under his belt. Letts is President, Founder and CEO of InVest USA, an organization that provides bulletproof vests to police officers through various charitable groups and sponsorships.
Michael’s knowledge of law and order make him a great guest for this particular subject. Welcome, Michael!
Q&A:
- What are your thoughts on the three officers being charged once again for the death of Gonzalez, despite the charges being initially dismissed?
- Based on what you have gathered from this case, did the officers do anything wrong while detaining Gonzalez? Why isn’t Price convinced of this?
- What does this say about the ongoing disdain by Los Angeles officials against their police officers? It seems to be continuously building.
- Would these officers be better suited serving other districts instead of Los Angeles? Especially in this day and age?
- What do you think will become of the case? If found guilty, will it have a reflection on other officers that are still serving the city?
- You’re the creator of InVest USA, an organization that provides bulletproof vests to police officers through various charitable groups and sponsorships. Tell us more about that, and why support for fellow officers is so important right now.
- Where can we learn more about InVest USA, and how those interested can help their fellow officers.
- You can visit our official InVest USA website, and learn more on the official Invest USA Twitter account. You can also learn about my new initiative at RestoringJustice.US, where we discuss lawful issues surrounding citizens of the United States.
About Michael Letts:
Michael Letts is the Founder, President, and CEO of InVest USA, a national grassroots non-profit organization that is helping hundreds of communities provide thousands of bulletproof vests for their police forces through educational, public relations, sponsorship, and fundraising programs. He also has over 30 years of law enforcement experience under his belt, hence his pro-police stance for his brothers and sisters in blue. Those interested in learning more about Letts can visit his official website here.
CONTACT: Jerry McGlothlin at: geraldmcg@outlook.com or 919-437-0001.
