Cop fatally hit pedestrian and drove away. Victim's family says Downey police covered it up
Briefly

The family of Raymond Lavalle, killed by a Downey police officer in a car-pedestrian crash, is suing the city, alleging a cover-up of the incident. Lavalle was struck near the San Gabriel River Trail in October 2023, with the officer reportedly fleeing the scene. While the Whittier Police found evidence for charges, the L.A. County district attorney deemed it a tragic accident, not warranting criminal prosecution. Lavalle's family claims the department's silence and lack of notification constituted a cover-up regarding their father's death.
The family alleges that Downey officials attempted to cover up a fatal hit-and-run incident involving a police officer, fueling public distrust in law enforcement accountability.
Following the crash, the Whittier Police Department recommended charges against the officer, yet the L.A. County district attorney's office ultimately decided not to prosecute, deeming it a tragic accident.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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