At a Glance
- 19-year-old Alberto Arzola shot dead on Dec. 6 by Anaheim police.
- Family claims officers fired from behind while he complied.
- City says officers acted in public safety interest.
- Why it matters: The case raises questions about police use of force and accountability.
In a tense confrontation on Dec. 6, Anaheim police shot and killed 19-year-old Alberto Arzola on his front porch, prompting the family to file a claim against the city and department. The incident, captured on body-cam footage, has sparked a debate over police conduct and the handling of alleged threats.
The Incident
Two officers conducting gang-suppression operations saw a group of men, including Arzola, enter the neighborhood. Body-cam video shows a scuffle on Arzola’s porch. One officer fired his gun, killing Arzola.
Family’s Argument
Family members and attorney James Desimone said Arzola was attempting to comply with officers’ commands. The attorney explained:
> “Then you see his right hand extended,
He puts his right hand on the ground. He’s not fighting those officers. He’s not threatening those officers, and then the officer does the unthinkable. He shoots him from the back.”
- Arzola’s right hand was extended and on the ground.
- He was not fighting or threatening.
- Officer fired from behind.
Cordova’s Injury
Arzola’s friend, 18-year-old Emmanuel Cordova, was present with hands up and back turned. Police fired a bean-bag round that struck Cordova in the head. Desimone said:
> “He’s getting conflicting commands,
Stop, get on the ground. He does what he believes will protect him. He raises his hands. As he’s raising his hands, his back is to the officers. He’s showing them he’s no threat. As he’s raising his hands, an officer takes aim and shoots him in his head with a less lethal projectile.”
- Cordova suffered a brain injury.
- Separate legal claims filed for Cordova and a 14-year-old relative traumatized by the shooting.
City’s Response
The city of Anaheim issued a statement: “Our thoughts go out to the family. We believe our officers acted in the best interest of public safety. Beyond that, we want to respect the thorough reviews underway and caution against any rush to judgement.”
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of shooting | Dec. 6 |
| Location | 800 block of South Philadelphia Street, Anaheim |
| Victim | 19-year-old Alberto Arzola |
| Alleged weapon | Assault-style gun found near porch |
| Officer action | Fired gun, killing Arzola; fired bean-bag round at Cordova |
Key Takeaways
- The family’s claim alleges unjustified use of force by Anaheim police.
- Attorney Desimone highlights that Arzola was complying and shot from behind.
- The city maintains officers acted in public safety interest while reviews continue.
The lawsuit underscores the ongoing scrutiny of police shootings and the legal avenues families pursue when they believe force was excessive.
