Three City of Alameda Police officers charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of Mario Gonzalez made their first appearances at the Wiley E. Manuel Courthouse in Oakland on Friday, August 2.
The three officers—James Fisher, Cameron Leahy, and Eric McKinley—face charges stemming from the April 19, 2021, death of Gonzalez while he was being detained on suspicion of shoplifting. If convicted and sentenced, the three officers could face up to four years in state prison, according to a statement issued by the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.
The officers waived time for a speedy arraignment and their attorneys asked for a continuance. The arraignment was continued to October 11, 2024. Friday’s hearing was attended by Gonzalez’ family and friends, including his mother.
The City of Alameda previously settled a civil lawsuit arising from Gonzalez’ death with a payment of $11,350,000 to his family, according to the DA’s office.
