Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta praised the guilty verdict against Luis Mendez Jr. for assault with a deadly weapon against a special agent, following an investigation by the California Police Shooting Investigation Team. Bonta expressed his gratitude towards the agents involved, stating, “Each and every day, special agents from the California Department of Justice put their lives on the line to take illegal firearms off our streets and out of the hands of dangerous individuals. Thankfully, justice was served in this case and I am incredibly relieved that nobody was hurt during this incident.”

Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer emphasized the importance of condemning violence against law enforcement officers, stating, “We as a society must send a strong message that we will not tolerate anyone firing on our law enforcement officers and that an attack on law enforcement is an attack on us all.” Spitzer commended the collaborative efforts of the Bureau of Firearms and the Costa Mesa Police Department in ensuring the safe arrest of Mendez without any injuries.

The incident, which occurred in 2022 during a search warrant execution, involved Mendez firing at special agents from the Bureau of Firearms, leading to an eight-hour standoff before his surrender. Mendez has been charged with multiple felony violations, including assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, resisting an executive officer, and possession of firearms and ammunition by a prohibited person.

The successful resolution of this case underscores the dedication and bravery of law enforcement personnel in ensuring public safety and upholding the rule of law.