This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
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.
Sponsored message
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
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
