Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has released a report on the officer-involved shooting of Daniel Elena Lopez and bystander Valentina Orellana Peralta in North Hollywood, California, on December 23, 2021. The incident involved the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and has been the subject of a thorough investigation by the California Department of Justice (DOJ).

In the report, Attorney General Bonta expressed the difficulty of the case, stating, “This case was a particularly challenging one to process as this involved the loss of two lives.” He extended his sympathies to the family of Valentina Orellana Peralta, emphasizing that her only involvement in the incident was being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The DOJ's investigation concluded that criminal charges were not appropriate in this case. However, the report highlights the importance of learning from the incident and making critical policy and practice improvements within law enforcement. Attorney General Bonta emphasized the commitment to ensuring an unbiased, transparent, and accountable legal system for all residents of California.

The incident on December 23, 2021, occurred when LAPD responded to a report of an active shooter at Burlington Coat Factory. The officer involved fatally shot Mr. Elena Lopez, and a round struck and killed 14-year-old bystander Valentina Orellana Peralta. The DOJ's investigation, conducted in accordance with AB 1506, found insufficient evidence to support a criminal prosecution of the officer.

As part of its findings, the DOJ recommended improvements in communication training for scenarios involving Immediate Action and Rapid Deployment. The LAPD is encouraged to update their communication training bulletin and related training to better address similar situations in the future.

The release of this report by the California Department of Justice aims to provide transparency, understanding, and contribute to a safer California for all residents. The full report can be accessed for further details and insights.