FULLERTON, CA — In a high-profile civil rights lawsuit stemming from an officer-involved shooting inside a Burlington Coat Factory store in North Hollywood, defendants, Officer William Jones Jr. and the City of Los Angeles, obtained a defense verdict following a jury trial in federal district court. Jones Mayer successfully defended the case on behalf of Officer Jones, resulting in a decisive victory that underscores the legal standard protecting law enforcement officers responding to active threats.
The case arose from a December 23, 2021, incident in which Daniel Elena-Lopez, while inside the store, battered an innocent shopper, bludgeoning her with a heavy-duty, black vinyl covered bike lock, resulting in severe injuries. Numerous 911 calls reported both a shooting at the store and assaults by an assailant on store customers with a bike lock. Responding LAPD officers, including Officer Jones, acted on this information believing there was an active shooter incident in progress.
Upon arrival, Officer Jones encountered the victim on the second floor, severely injured and bleeding. Elena-Lopez remained nearby, still holding what Officer Jones perceived to be a firearm, raised his hand holding the object in a threatening manner. Acting swiftly to protect the victim, his fellow officers, and the public, Officer Jones discharged his patrol rifle at Elena-Lopez. Elena-Lopez died from his injuries. The firearm that Officer Jones perceived, in hindsight, proved to be the bike lock.
The plaintiffs—relatives of Elena-Lopez—alleged excessive force, wrongful death, and a variety of other claims against the defendants.
“This was a textbook example of police officers responding with urgency to prevent further harm to the public in an ongoing, active crisis,” said Jim Touchstone, Partner at Jones Mayer. “The jury vindicated Officer Jones’ decision to utilize deadly force in rapidly unfolding circumstances that required him to make a split-second decision to stop the threat of what he perceived as a suspect about to shoot either the victim lying at his feet, himself or his fellow officers.”
About the Attorneys
Jim Touchstone is a Partner at Jones Mayer and a leading expert in public safety litigation and constitutional policing. He has successfully defended public agencies and law enforcement officers in high-risk, high-visibility civil rights cases throughout California.
The City was represented by Christian R. Bojorquez, a seasoned trial attorney, who serves as Deputy City Attorney for the City of Los Angeles, specializing in police litigation and public safety defense.
About Jones Mayer
Jones Mayer is a full-service law firm headquartered in Fullerton, California, with a statewide reputation for excellence in public sector law. With decades of experience representing cities, counties, law enforcement agencies, and public officials, Jones Mayer is known for its integrity, legal depth, and courtroom successes in defense of matters involving civil rights, constitutional law, and public safety. For more information, visit www.jones-mayer.com or contact the firm at (714) 446-1400.