By Jim Tortolano/Garden Grove Journal
A Garden Grove police officer has been cleared of any wrongdoing in the 2011 shooting death of a 31-year-old man.
On Wednesday, the Orange County District Attorney issued a report and letter exonerating the officer in connection with the fatal shooting of Jason Nunez in Garden Grove on Nov. 19, 2011.
According to the OCDA’s report, the incident began at Nunez’s sister’s house, where he was observed starting a fire in the backyard. Told to put out the fire, Nunez reportedly grew angry and broke several windows at the house.
He then allegedly began throwing rocks at his sister and her boyfriend, followed by grabbing two knives and chasing the couple down the street.
Police were summoned and when they arrived on Glen Street, they spotted Nunez with a knife in his hand. According to the district attorney’s report, an officer told Nunez repeatedly to “drop the knife” and “stop, stop.”
Witnesses said Nunez advanced on the officer, who fired one shot, dropping the man, who was then handcuffed and given CPR. Arriving Garden Grove paramedics pronounced Nunez dead on the scene.
The OCDA’s report included comments from Nunez’ sister saying that he had suffered from severe depression and would be likely to attack officers.
The report said“there is substantial evidence that the officer’s actions were justified under the circumstances.”
