Officers Mistake Cell Phone for Weapon and Shoot Athens Man

Twenty-two year old Woodrow Player Jr. was shot and killed last week by two Los Angeles County Deputies who believed he was pointing a gun at them. After Player had fallen to the ground and was dying, the deputies realized he had only held a cell phone during their foot pursuit.

Around 9pm deputies pulled behind Player’s parked vehicle because they believed that he could be the man people had stated was threatening them with a gun. When the deputies approached Player, he ran.

During the pursuit the deputies claim he turned at least twice and pointed a dark object at them, which they believed to be a gun. The second time this happened, the deputies opened fire. Witness state that Player was shot three times in the back, tried to get up and continue running, and was shot one more time before falling and never getting up again.

The Department says they are investigating the incident though some don’t have faith in their ability to fairly investigate their own deputies. Some, including Player’s family, are calling for a federal investigation.

His family states that since being acquitted of murder last year, Player has been attending church and trying to get his life back on track. He was on parole at the time of his death.

A sad case indeed and one that exemplifies part of the need for all of the laws regarding weapons and firearms. While Player did not have a gun, there are many similar situations where guns are present and not only cause for alarm, but also cause for criminal charges for a suspect with a gun or firearm.

From possession of a firearm without a permit to brandishing a deadly weapon, there are many firearm laws under the California Penal Code. If you are caught in violation of any of these laws, an aggressive attorney is crucial. If you want to get the best possible results in court, you need someone willing to fight for your rights.

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