Associated Press
LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles County prosecutors have decided no charges will be filed against a police officer who kicked a surrendering suspect in the head after a car chase.
Deputy District Attorney Jason P. Lustig wrote in a decision Tuesday that evidence indicates the kick by El Monte Officer George Fierro was more likely an attempt to stun or distract gang member Richard Rodriguez than an act of anger or vindictiveness.
Rodriguez was lying face-down on the ground during the May 13 incident, which was broadcast by a TV news helicopter.
Prosecutors also will not charge another officer, James Singleterry, who struck Rodriguez with a flashlight.
Rodriguez has filed a claim for $5 million in damages from the city.