Off-duty policeman’s actions lead to injury of innocent bystanders during the pursuit of an armed individual
In a shocking turn of events, a Denver police officer, Brandon Ramos, has pleaded guilty to third-degree assault after wounding six bystanders while firing at an armed suspect. The incident took place in the bustling Lower Downtown neighborhood, where Ramos and two other officers engaged Jordan Waddy after he brandished a weapon. This regrettable event has had a lasting impact on the victims, showcasing the ripple effect of a split-second decision made by law enforcement.
The situation unfolded during a routine patrol of the area, with the officers confronting Waddy, who revealed a firearm during the confrontation. At the time of the incident, the grand jury found that the other officers present were legally justified in firing at Waddy, who posed a genuine threat.
However, it was noted that Ramos, positioned to the side, disregarded the risk of endangering innocent bystanders when he discharged his weapon. Ramos received an 18-month probation sentence, but according to the terms of the plea deal negotiated with prosecutors, he has the option to request a reduction in the probation period.
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Angelica Rey, a teacher who fell victim to the gunfire, suffered a serious leg injury that subsequently affected her employment. Additionally, Bailey Alexander, another individual injured in the incident, recounted the traumatic experience of her mother receiving news of her daughter’s shooting in the middle of the night, underscoring the far-reaching repercussions of the event.
Following the guilty plea, Ramos has been deemed ineligible to continue serving as a police officer, with the Denver Police Department placing him on unpaid administrative leave as a review of the shooting is conducted. Meanwhile, the victims are left to navigate the aftermath, both physically and emotionally, with the hope of reaching closure and healing from the traumatic ordeal.