FRESNO (KMJ) — A request for more information relating to the death of Dylan Noble has been approved by a federal court.
The decision made Monday forces the City of Fresno and Fresno Police Department to release documents to the plaintiffs relative to the shooting of the 19 year old on June 25th 2016, and the resulting investigation. The official order can be viewed clicking here.
“It’s not everything, it’s what she [the magistrate] calls objective evidence,” explained attorney Stuart Chandler, who is acting on behalf of the family.
“Things like photographs, 911 call, things regarding the investigation. There are components of evidence that we agree with the judge and the City that are privileged.
“Things like information within police officers personnel files and such. As to that we’ll work out an agreement with the City lawyers what will remain confidential.”
Chandler said he wants more information on a 911 call detailing who the officers were looking for that day, and more of the bodycam footage captured during the incident.
“Our position though is that the City cannot police in secret. They’ve been saying all along that we get absolutely nothing because it’s all under investigation.”
In a statement, Police Chief Jerry Dyer says he agrees with the ruling and believes a protective order is appropriate in this case.
“There is no reason to sensationalize this tragic event. It is important that this case not be tried in the media in order to guarantee a fair process for all involved. There appears to be a desire on the part of some to do just that. A protective order is designed to prevent that from happening.”
Fresno County District Attorney’s Office adds that it is still of the opinion that the shooting death did not involve any criminal conduct by Fresno Police Department.
“It is the District Attorney’s Office’s role in these incidents solely to investigate and determine whether any violation of California criminal law was committed by the officer or officers,” writes Assistant District Attorney Steve Wright.
“It is not the role of the District Attorney’s Office to determine civil negligence, civil rights violations, or to condone or condemn the policies of law enforcement agencies or the tactical decisions of law enforcement officers.”
The case is currently set to go to trial in October 2018.
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
