Glendale police officer charged with assault on juvenile shoplifting suspect in 2021 mall incident

CNN
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A police officer has been charged with aggravated assault in connection with an incident at a mall three years ago involving a juvenile shoplifter, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced Monday.

Glendale police officer Gonzalo Zendejas allegedly kicked the youth in the head during an altercation with other officers at the Glendale Galleria mall on June 5, 2021, prosecutors said in a news release.

Zendejas has been charged with assault on a public servant. CNN has contacted his representatives for comment.

When asked why it took three years for charges to be brought against Zendejas, prosecutor spokeswoman Venusse Dunn told CNN: “There was a comprehensive investigation into this matter.”

A shopper captured the brawl on video in 2021, CNN previously reported. Police launched an internal investigation and the officers involved were initially placed on leave. The other three officers are now back on full duty, said department spokesman Sgt. Vahe Abramyan.

Glendale police said in a press release that their internal administrative investigation is still ongoing “as the outcome depends on the completion of the criminal investigation.”

“While police officers face an extraordinarily challenging and demanding job in their duty to protect our communities, that responsibility does not excuse actions that endanger others or undermine the public’s trust,” Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón said in the press release.

“This incident is a serious violation of the duty to serve with integrity and respect. Our office’s commitment is to ensure that justice is served and all individuals, regardless of role or position, are held accountable for their actions.”

If convicted, Zendejas faces up to three years in prison. The prosecutor’s office said charges will be brought at a later date.