Family of teen shot and killed by Anaheim police files claims against city
The family of a 19-year-old who was shot and killed by police in Anaheim spoke out during a news conference Tuesday, announcing the filing of claims against the city.
The incident happened on December 6 when two officers were patrolling the 800 block of Philadelphia Street as part of a gang suppression operation.
The officers came across several people in front of a home when that interaction escalated to a confrontation, the department said.
Police say Alberto Arzola struggled with officers before they opened fire on him, but Arzola's family claims the teen wasn't involved and say he was cooperating.
"All I want is for you guys to keep us in your prayers, and justice for my son," Arzola's mother, Rosie Camacho, said at the news conference, her voice choked with emotion. "My son was my whole world."
The family announced the filing of a claim against the city of Anaheim, the first step in filing a civil rights lawsuit over the shooting.
"That second officer in the video is shown with his gun out, but with his gun at his side," said the family's attorney James DeSimone. "It's not in the ready position. His gun at his side. So I ask you if Alberto Arzola was a threat to those officers, that officer would've had his gun in the ready position, pointed and he would've shot as well if there truly was a threat."
Police body camera video shows what authorities said as a loaded assault-style firearm on the grass near Arzola.
"We can't comment on -- at this point -- where that gun came from," DeSimone told reporters.
Two other claims are also being filed. The second claim is on behalf of 18-year-old Emmanuel Cordova.
The family says during the incident, his back was to officers with his hands in the air, complying with commands, when he was shot by a less lethal projectile.
The third is being filed on behalf of Arzola's 14-year-old cousin, who the family says witnessed an officer yank Arzola off his feet and shoot him multiple times.
"Our thoughts go out to the family," the city of Anaheim said in a statement. "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."
