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Family Of Man Shot In Back By Anaheim Police Protests DA's Decision To Not Press Charges
Mother of Manuel Diaz leading protest now outside courthouse. Anaheim cop who killed her son was cleared yesterday. pic.twitter.com/IwdGZPldX8
— Ben Bergman (@thebenbergman) March 21, 2013
The family of Manuel Diaz is protesting the Orange County District Attorney's decision to not prosecute the police office who fatally shot Diaz eight months ago exactly.
Diaz's mother Genevieve Huizar, his sister Guadalupe Diaz, Diaz's stepfather John Huizar and other protesters spoke out against the decision at a Santa Ana courthouse this morning. The protesters held up signs that read "No more killer cops" and "D.A. Rackauckas supports killer police."
Huizar told the Orange County Register, "We're still going to fight. We're still going to continue for justice. I will not stop until he's arrested, goes to trial, or goes to prison."
Diaz's family has filed a $50 million wrongful death suit against the Officer Nick Bennallack and the city of Anaheim.
Orange County District Attorney Tony Rackauckas announced yesterday that their investigation determined that Officer Nick Bennallack was justified in fatally shooting Manuel Diaz on July 21, 2012. Officers said that Diaz appeared to reach for his waistband and turn backward as he ran away from Anaheim officers. The shooting, the immediate aftermath and the violent police response stirred protests in the city.
Tonight Huizar said there will be a candlelight vigil at Anna Drive in Anaheim where Diaz was shot at 6:30 pm, according to the OC Weekly.
Related:
Anaheim Cop Justified in Fatally Shooting Man in the Back, Says DA
Manuel Diaz' Mother Calls for End to Violent Protests
Video: Watch The Immediate Aftermath Of The Officer-Involved Shooting in Anaheim (Graphic)
Photos: Anaheim Police Fire Rubber Bullets, Pepper Balls On Angry Crowd Protesting Officer-Involved Shooting
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