Erick Gelhaus, deputy in Andy Lopez shooting, returning to patrol
Sonoma County Sheriff’s Deputy Erick Gelhaus will return to patrolling the streets next week, nearly 10 months after he shot and killed 13-year-old Andy Lopez, sparking protests that revealed deep distrust of law enforcement among some residents, especially those in the Latino community.
The Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office in July cleared Gelhaus of any criminal wrongdoing for his actions in the fatal Oct. 22 shooting, which ignited an emotional debate about officers’ use of deadly force and the dangers of toy guns made to look like real firearms.
Lopez was shot while walking down a residential street on Santa Rosa’s southwest outskirts carrying an airsoft BB gun made to resemble an AK-47 assault rifle. Gelhaus told investigators he ordered the boy to drop the gun, then opened fire when Lopez turned toward the deputy, partially raising the barrel of the gun.
Gelhaus did not return a call seeking comment about his return to patrol duties. His attorney Terry Leoni said in an email that the veteran deputy welcomed “this assignment, and knows his nearly 25-years in law enforcement will continue to benefit the community.”
Read more: http://www.pressdemocrat.com/home/2530400-181/erick-gelhaus-deputy-in-andy#page=0
Long article. Many people not happy he will be returning to the streets of Sonoma County.
= new reply since forum marked as read
Michael Brown put his hands up and was shot
The Colorado movie shooter after his killing spree put his hands up and was arrested and received psychiatric help
Of course he is detained as should be awaiting trial I believe
Thought all folks had a right to trial . . .maybe some are happy with vigilante justice by the police and open carry people so no big deal 
Wonder what % feel that way ? This cop had a history of trouble and is back on the 'beat'? Doesn't seem a majority care about the boy shot or the chance of it occurring again