The first trial examining law enforcement’s response to the Robb Elementary School shooting begins Monday in Corpus Christi. Former Uvalde officer Adrian Gonzales faces 29 counts of child endangerment and abandonment. He pleaded not guilty to all charges after being indicted for failing to confront the gunman despite hearing shots and knowing the shooter’s location, FOX San Antonio reports.
Nueces County Sheriff JC Hooper said the court is prepared for the trial, with security measures and accommodations for the prosecution, defense, families, and media. The trial, moved from Uvalde to Corpus Christi due to public interest, begins with jury selection on Monday and is expected to last about three weeks.
Gonzales is not the only one facing scrutiny, as former Uvalde school police chief Pete Arredondo was also indicted concerning the delayed response, although his trial date remains unset. Defense attorney Nico LaHood, leading Gonzales's legal team, countered the narrative of his client's inaction, stating to KSAT, "He was there. He was present. He was going to the danger," firmly disputing the government's claims.
LaHood acknowledged the high stakes of the trial and said he will vigorously contest the charges. He maintains that his client, Gonzales, is innocent despite the government’s significant resources, signaling a contentious legal battle ahead.
