California Attorney General Rob Bonta released a report on Apr. 17 regarding the death of John Romero, who was killed in an officer-involved shooting by San Diego Police Department officers on December 8, 2022. The California Department of Justice conducted the investigation under Assembly Bill 1506, which requires review of all incidents where unarmed civilians die as a result of police shootings.
The release is part of ongoing efforts to promote transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices. The California Attorney General’s office aims to inform public policy and provide access to criminal justice data through resources such as the OpenJustice portal, according to the official website.
According to the report, officers responded to a call about a man pointing a handgun at his head. When they located Romero near a parked car, he continued holding what appeared to be a handgun and did not comply with commands. Officers fired bean bag rounds before one officer shot Romero after he raised his weapon. It was later found that the gun was an airsoft replica without distinguishing markings.
After reviewing evidence, the Department of Justice concluded there was insufficient evidence for criminal charges against involved officers because it could not be proven beyond reasonable doubt that they acted without intent to defend themselves or others from imminent harm.
Attorney General Bonta said: “Loss of life is always a tragedy. 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.” He added: “Together, we aim to foster a system that not only protects the rights of individuals but also promotes trust and accountability between law enforcement and our communities.”
The DOJ identified three policy recommendations for San Diego Police Department: enhanced training on command during multi-unit responses involving suicidal persons with weapons; scenario-based training for mental health crisis situations; and updates ensuring de-escalation techniques are mandatory when feasible in use-of-force policies.
Rob Bonta leads the California Attorney General’s office, which serves as chief law enforcement authority across California by enforcing state laws and advancing initiatives in civil rights, consumer protection, economic security, and environmental justice according to its official website.
