California, U.S. – California Justice Department officials are investigating the death of Jeremy Sanchez, a 26-year-old man fatally shot by his parole officer during a Christmas Eve visit at his Fresno home, authorities confirmed Friday.
According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), a “physical altercation” occurred between Sanchez and the parole officer, prompting the officer to discharge their weapon. Despite attempts to administer lifesaving measures, Sanchez died at the scene.
Fresno police responded after neighbours reported hearing three gunshots. The parole officer, whose identity has not been disclosed, has 13 years of experience, CDCR spokesperson Pedro Calderon Michel stated.
Court records show Sanchez had previously served time for domestic violence and resisting an officer and had an open misdemeanour vandalism case.
In compliance with state law, the Justice Department is investigating the incident as an officer-involved shooting that resulted in the death of an unarmed civilian.
The CDCR’s Deadly Force Review Board will conduct its own review after the criminal and administrative investigations conclude.
The case has drawn attention to the circumstances surrounding the use of force by parole officers and the protocols governing such incidents.