A fierce legal battle is underway in Pocatello, Idaho, concerning the police shooting of a 17-year-old boy with nonverbal disabilities.
At a Glance
- A California law firm plans a federal wrongful death lawsuit for a boy shot by police.
- Victor Perez, a nonverbal boy with autism and cerebral palsy, was shot and later died.
- Video evidence shows officers shot Perez, who was holding a kitchen knife, without de-escalation.
- Officers are on administrative leave pending an independent investigation.
Legal Action and Alleged Excessive Force
The family of Victor Perez is pursuing a federal wrongful death lawsuit after the nonverbal, autistic teenager was shot by police in Pocatello. Lawyers claim excessive force was involved when officers shot Perez, who was holding a kitchen knife but did not appear to be a threat. The lawsuit targets the city, police chief, and four officers, alleging emotional distress and a lack of proper protocol.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9r3Eib8iSNc
Perez’s family, represented by a California law firm, emphasizes the need for accountability. Their legal team argues that the officers’ actions were criminally negligent, stating that Perez was never a threat. Reports indicate the family experienced severe distress over the tragedy, mourning their loss as investigations unfold.
Events Leading to the Tragedy
Police were summoned to the scene following a 911 call reporting a man with a knife, which turned out to be Perez. His disabilities made him nonverbal and caused a staggered gait. Video footage allegedly shows that officers opened fire within 12 seconds of arrival, without attempts to de-escalate the situation. Perez underwent surgeries, had nine bullets removed and his leg amputated before being taken off life support.
“They can’t justify the shooting by saying he was a danger to anyone. He wasn’t going after anyone. The officers just lined up and opened fire.” – lawyer Ben Nisenbaum.
The incident spurred outrage among Perez’s family and the Pocatello community. An independent investigation is ongoing, with the Idaho Attorney General’s office set to review the findings. Authorities have expressed seriousness about the investigation, and any charges will be determined by an outside agency.
Community and Legal Responses
The community’s reaction to the shooting of Victor Perez includes plans for a vigil in honor of the teenager. The family and their lawyer maintain that the officers must face consequences for what they describe as a violation of civil rights. Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador stated that his office will conduct a thorough and impartial review following the investigation.
“As with all such matters, the Office of the Attorney General will conduct a thorough and impartial review once the Eastern Idaho Critical Incident Taskforce completes its investigation. Given the seriousness of the matter and the ongoing investigation, our office will not be making further public comment at this time.” – Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador.
Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad voiced condolences to the family and assured the public that the city is taking necessary steps. The case underscores the need for transparency and justice, as community members and legal advocates call for substantive changes in how such incidents are handled.
