Two SAPD Officers Suspended after Violating Department’s Pursuit Policy

Officers Suspended for Violating High-speed Chase Protocols

Two officers from the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) have been suspended after violating the department’s pursuit policy, as confirmed by recent records. Both officers were said to have broken policy during a high-speed chase that occurred in February 2024.

Details of the Violation

Officer Colton Richter received a suspension of five days, while Officer Lorenzo Vela is serving a 15-day suspension. The violations were related to a chase incident involving a black BMW in the 3300 block of West Poplar Street.

According to the same records, Vela attempted to stop the BMW after suspecting that its paper plates had been tampered with. Officer Richter was on the scene to provide backup, but the suspect driver sped off as Vela exited his patrol vehicle, triggering a high-speed pursuit by both officers.

Reckless Pursuit and Compliance Failure

The records expanded on the chase details, illustrating that the suspect’s car drove against oncoming traffic and ran a red light. Despite the BMW’s reckless actions, Officer Richter allegedly pursued the vehicle without receiving the necessary supervisor’s approval – violating department policy.

In addition, the report stated that Officer Richter intermittently used his patrol car’s emergency lights during the chase and was captured driving over 30 miles per hour above the speed limit. Besides, the suspect was observed driving against wrong-way traffic.

Use of Excessive Force and Violation of Body Cam Policies

The pursuit ended when the suspect crashed at SW 29th Street and Randall Avenue and attempted to flee on foot. Officer Vela succeeded in capturing the individual, but the body camera footage showed him using “unnecessary verbal abuse” towards the suspect.

In another violation of SAPD policies, officers Richter and Vela muted their body cameras during crucial parts of the incident. Richter turned off his camera’s audio after they apprehended the suspect, while Vela muted his prior to the conclusion of the incident.

Disciplinary Actions and Policy Enforcement

The SAPD records confirmed that Officers Richter and Vela have been serving with the department for three years. Their recent suspensions are indicative of the severe consequences for officers who violate the department’s pursuit and body camera protocols, emphasizing SAPD’s commitment to upholding the law and ensuring public safety.