Glendale, CA has witnessed a development in a case dating back to 2021, where Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced charges against a local police officer for an alleged assault incident. The officer in question, Gonzalo Zendejas, is accused of assaulting a juvenile during an attempt to detain him at the Glendale Galleria after a reported shoplifting incident on June 5, 2021. According to a press release by the District Attorney's Office, Zendejas is charged with one felony count of assault by a public officer.
A struggle ensued after mall security officers observed two juveniles allegedly shoplifting, and police responded to the scene. During the attempt to detain one of the juveniles, Zendejas allegedly kicked the juvenile in the head, as detailed in the official filing. "While police officers face an extraordinarily challenging and demanding job while working to protect our communities, this responsibility does not excuse actions that endanger others or undermine public trust," District Attorney Gascón stated, signaling the gravity of the breach of conduct, according to the District Attorney's Office.
In response to the incident, the Glendale Police Department immediately initiated an internal investigation and put all officers involved on administrative leave. They also sought the assistance of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and the DA's office for a comprehensive and transparent review of the incident, ensuring that every piece of evidence, including reports, audio, and video, was shared to aid the investigation. Maintained by an image of upholding integrity, professionalism, and community partnership, the Glendale Police Department underscored its ethos in a statement that those they encounter daily are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances.
If convicted, Zendejas faces a maximum sentence of three years in county jail, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of violating the standards set for law enforcement officers. The case, investigated by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, is emblematic of the legal system's task to ensure that officers who step outside the bounds of their authority are held accountable. Arraignment details for Zendejas are forthcoming, with the date set at a later time in Dept. 30 of the Foltz Criminal Justice Center.
