In a series of legal developments for Erik Cantu, the San Antonio teenager wounded by police gunfire, a plea deal has led to the dismissal of two charges against him. As reported by Express News, the 19-year-old entered a no contest plea yesterday to two counts of evading arrest with a vehicle. The Judge, Stephanie R. Boyd of the 186th District Court, dismissed Cantu's other misdemeanor charges as part of the agreement, including theft and failure to stop.

Granting probation, Judge Boyd imposed a two-year suspension of Cantu's driving privileges and a seven-year term of community supervision, according to KSAT. The defendant has also been ordered to complete 200 hours of community service, though he has the option to waive this requirement by enrolling in college courses and completing parenting classes.

The underlying events of this case include two separate instances in late 2022 and 2023 where Cantu allegedly evaded police in a white BMW, as well as a shoplifting incident at a Walmart Supercenter. During an attempt to evade arrest on Loop 1604, Cantu collided with a white Lexus SUV before halting in a store parking lot.

Reflecting on the consequences of the fateful police encounter, the injuries Cantu suffered from former SAPD officer James Brennand's gunfire were severe. Brennand, then a seven-month member of SAPD, responded to a disturbance at a McDonald’s parking lot. There, he recognized Cantu’s 2008 BMW from a previous encounter. Though the vehicle was not stolen, Brennand demanded Cantu to step out. As Cantu fled, Brennand fired at least ten shots, striking him multiple times and critically wounding him. Brennand, who has since been charged with aggravated assault by a public servant, is expected in court on September 13, as per details from KSAT.

In April, Cantu initiated a civil rights lawsuit against the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) and Brennand, alleging that the use of force was excessive and racially motivated. The forthcoming trial of Brennand will occur amid these legal developments and the attention they have garnered. Cantu and his attorney, Brian Powers, remained silent post hearing and have yet to comment publicly.