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A coroner's report in the death of Kelly Thomas, the mentally ill transient beaten by a group of Fullerton Police officers, has been completed, but the results have not been made public. However, the Orange County District Attorney's office is expected to reveal today if the officers involved will face criminal charges in the high profile case.A news conference has been scheduled for 11 a.m. today in Santa Ana, notes the OC Register.
Thomas, 37, was confronted by six police officers and a violent encounter ensued, as the officers allegedly attempted to subdue the man with a Taser. The officers delivered an ultimately fatal beating to the homeless man, who was well-known in the area. Medical records released recently detail the extent of his injuries, including brain trauma, smashed bones in his face, broken ribs and internal bleeding. Thomas tested negative for drugs and alcohol.
Kelly Thomas' father, Ron, has been adamant that the Fullerton Police are fully accountable for his son's death. He said last night he had not seen the coroner's report, according to published reports.
The officers involved in the Thomas case have been on paid administrative leave since early July. Fullerton Police Chief Michael Sellers remains on medical leave.
UPDATE 11:30 AM: The OC DA announced felony charges against two of the officers involved.
