Investigation Underway After Los Angeles Police Department Killed Unarmed Man Identified As Ricardo Ramirez
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA (July 20, 2024) – A man identified as Ricardo Ramirez has tragically died in a Los Angeles Police Department shooting along the Figueroa Corridor.
Los Angeles County officials are saying that the incident took place around 10:25 p.m. on July 13. LAPD officials said that the occupants of a Cadillac were allegedly wearing ski masks and in a possible dispute with another driver.
A patrol unit located the Cadillac and tailed it along 66th Street. Two men allegedly got out of the Cadillac and approached both sides of the police vehicle.
The sergeant opened fire and shot a man, later identified as Ricardo Ramirez. The LAPD started a chase after the other man got back into the Cadillac.
That driver was later arrested. Ricardo Ramirez was taken to the hospital with critical injuries. He was later pronounced dead at the hospital. A full investigation into the incident remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For Los Angeles Police Department Shootings
Police shootings remain alarmingly common across California. According to the Public Policy Institute of California, “About 195 people die each year from interactions with California law enforcement. Gunshots are by far the most common cause of death: nearly 250 people are shot by police each year.” Police departments should take a number of measures in order to prevent police shootings.
- Police officers should have clear use-of-force policies.
- Police officers should be equipped with less lethal options.
- Police officers should have units that specialize in dealing with suspects during a mental health crisis.
All police officers have a legal obligation to use the least amount of force necessary for any given situation. Pursuant to 42 U.S. Code § 1983, every person who, under the color of any statute, law or ordinance, causes a citizen of the United States to be deprived of their rights secured by the constitution, shall be liable to the injured party in an action at law. There are a number of situations where police officers should not use force against suspects.
- Police officers should not shoot or hit suspects who do not pose a threat of imminent harm to anyone.
- Police officers should not shoot or hit suspects who are already restrained.
- Police officers should not shoot or hit suspects who have surrendered.
- Police officers should not shoot or hit suspects merely because they are attempting to flee.
Police shootings are often highly preventable. This is particularly true when suspects are unarmed. These shootings tend to involve situations where officers are either unwilling or unable to de-escalate encounters. It is important for victims of police brutality to understand that they do have rights. In particular, the family of any person who died in a police shooting may have legal recourse through a civil claim.
Investigating Los Angeles Police Department Shootings
We at the Sehat Law Firm extend our deepest condolences to the family of Ricardo Ramirez. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to investigators. There needs to be some accountability for what took place.
Do you need more information about a Los Angeles police department shooting? Our team of civil rights attorneys is here for you. We care deeply that victims of police brutality are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (949) 825-5200.
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