Newton Division In-Custody Death NRF031-18bm

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**The following information is based on a preliminary and ongoing investigation, which continues to evolve as investigators interview witnesses, review physical and electronic records, and analyze forensic evidence. The Department’s understanding of the facts and circumstances may change as additional evidence is collected and analyzed**

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department’s (LAPD) Force Investigation Division is investigating an In-Custody Death that occurred in Newton area.

On May 6, 2018, around 2 p.m., Newton Patrol Division uniformed officers responded to a radio call of a “Prowler” at a residence in the 4400 block of Towne Avenue. When the officers arrived, they made contact with the suspect, Jose Chavez. Chavez ignored the officers’ commands and became confrontational. After numerous requests, Chavez failed to cooperate with the officers’ commands. Officers utilized less-lethal bean bag shotguns and Tasers before physically subduing Chavez and taking him into custody.

Chavez was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Investigators from the Los Angeles County coroner’s office responded to the hospital and took custody of Chavez’ body. An autopsy is pending.

Force Investigation Division detectives responded to the incident and will conduct a thorough investigation of the In-Custody death investigation.

The investigation will ultimately be reviewed by the Chief of Police, the Office of the Inspector General and Board of Police Commissioners for compliance with the Department’s policy. Additionally, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Justice System Integrity Division will conduct a comprehensive review of the facts of the incident.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is urged to call the LAPD at any of the following numbers:

During business hours at (213) 486-5230; During non-business hours or on weekends at (877)-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247); Anonymously 24-hours a day to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or by texting “LAPD” and your tip to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S); or Online at www.lapdonline.org and click on “Anonymous Web Tips.