LAPD Officers Will Not Be Prosecuted Over Shooting of Unarmed Disabled Man

Three Los Angeles police officers who shot an unarmed disabled man dead on live television after a car chase will not be prosecuted.

Prosecutors wrote there is insufficient evidence to prove Officers Armando Corral, Leonardo Ortiz and Michael Ayala did not act in self-defense or the defense of others when they killed 51-year-old Brian Beaird on Dec. 13, 2013. The letter was obtained by The Associated Press in a public records request.

Police officers are only justified in shooting a suspect when they have an objective and reasonable belief that the suspect represents an imminent threat. The LA Police Commission's review of Beaird's shooting found the LAPD officers could not believe they were in danger when they shot an unarmed civilian.

Chief Charlie Beck determined two months ago that the officers violated department rules for deadly force and their actions were not reasonable. The City Council approved payment of $5 million to Beaird's family to settle a federal civil rights lawsuit. 

The officers attended retraining and could face further discipline.

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