I just can't understand why an officer, any officer would be dispatched to an area that has recently been a target of over 25 breakins since 1/1/2016. Two cops per unit and no one would be having this conversation. His split second actions may have been a poor decision but the thought out decisions of his superiors to not have two man units in a high crime is inexcusable.

With that said, the officers attorney stated that he is confident that the facts will show that the officer followed proper protocol in his actions. I am sorry for the loss of life to the victims family but all of this could have been avoided if he had just cooperated with the officer that stopped him. Answer his questions, put down the painters pole and allow him to do his job, which is to protect and serve.

Instead, my guess is that he tried to elude the officer and ran. The officer pursued him and the altercation began. The victim was MUCH BIGGER than the officer and at some point in the struggle the officer made an instant decision and felt that his life was being threatened and used deadly force. The initial autopsy showed that he was shot 5 times, once in the wrist, once in the arm and once in the leg and then twice in the chest. The pathologist noted that some of entry wounds MAY indicate that he was in a defensive position when the bullet entered his body, but to me, it would be difficult to tell if I was raising my arm or hand to strike you or if I was putting up my hand to defend myself. The investigation will determine the facts and hopefully the truth will be revealed.

The kids father also served on the force for his entire life, so he is a second generation officer. His father has just recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer's so this family needs prayers. They damn sure don't need a group of political activist issuing death threats and putting up wanted posters on FB.