Originally published on April 16, 2015, at NationofChange.org
Police released dash cam video of an officer using his patrol car to intentionally run over a suspect. Although the suspect’s attorney has accused the officer of using excessive force, Marana Police Chief Terry Rozema defended the officer’s actions and commended him for potentially saving lives. The officer has not been indicted on any criminal charges.
According to the police, Mario Valencia allegedly robbed a 7-Eleven in Tucson while wearing only his underwear and brandishing a metal object at 6:45 a.m. on February 19. Over an hour later, Valencia reportedly broke into the Tucson Baptist Temple and set a fire at the church. After breaking into a home and stealing a car, Valencia drove to a Walmart where he stole a .30-.30 rifle and ammunition.
After abandoning his stolen car and fleeing from Walmart on foot, Valencia encountered Marana police officers in a business park. According to Lt. Tim Brunenkant, an officer ordered Valencia to drop the rifle several times. Instead of complying, Valencia reportedly aimed the rifle at his own head and threatened to commit suicide. Before turning the corner and walking toward a Coca-Cola bottling plant, Valencia allegedly pointed the gun at an officer but did not fire.
Dash cam video from two patrol cars following Valencia shows officers cautiously approaching him. An officer hears Valencia fire a gunshot into the air and reports, “One round just went out into the sky. It’s definitely unlocked now, it’s definitely loaded.”
andrewemett 