ANAHEIM, CA - (July 23, 2012) - Anaheim Mayor Tom Tait has called on state and federal agencies to assist the city with the review of incidents arising out of an officer-involved shooting which occurred on Saturday, July 21. After the shooting, a public protest occurred during which police officers used pepper balls to disperse the crowd and a police dog was accidently released into the crowd.

“Like many residents, I am very, very concerned with what occurred in our city on Saturday night,” said Mayor Tait. “I am asking the state Attorney General’s Office and the federal U.S. Attorney’s Office for assistance with a full and independent investigation of the entire situation.”

He continued, “The purpose of government is to protect the community, but at the same time, it is also to protect the rights of the individual. We must do both, and we must do both well.”

Anytime an Anaheim police office is involved in a shooting, the situation is reviewed independently of the Anaheim Police Department. Each incident is thoroughly evaluated by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office as a criminal investigation to determine if action taken by the police officers was lawful action. Upon conclusion of the investigation, the District Attorney releases the finding of the investigation to the public.

In addition, Chief John Welter will be conducting his own internal investigation and will report the findings to the city manager and the city council.

“It is critical that the entire city, including our police department, has the trust of the public,” said the Mayor. “This investigation will be completely transparent and we will work with the community to make sure that they have confidence in the people who are sworn to protect and serve them.”

Media Contact: Ruth Ruiz 714.765.5060more city news

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