FRESNO, Calif. (AP) - The Latest on criminal charges filed against a Central California sheriff’s deputy in his colleague’s shooting death (all times local):
12:20 p.m.
The attorney for a Central California sheriff’s detective says he’s puzzled by criminal charges filed against his client in the accidental shooting death of his colleague and friend.
Attorney Roger Wilson said Monday that the shooting was clearly an accident.
Fresno County sheriff’s Sgt. Rod Lucas died in October when he and Detective Jared Mullis were discussing ways to carry backup weapons. A gun went off killing 46-year-old Lucas.
Prosecutors have charged Mullis with felony involuntary manslaughter and a weapons enhancement.
Wilson says his client could spend up to 14 years in state prison.
He says Mullis admired his late colleague and remains emotional and tearful over the death.
Fresno County Assistant District Attorney Blake Gunderson declined to comment on the case.
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11:30 a.m.
Authorities say they’ve filed criminal charges against a Central California sheriff’s detective accused of killing his colleague in what was initially called an accidental shooting.
Fresno County Sheriff’s Detective Jared Mullis was charged Friday with felony involuntary manslaughter and a weapons enhancement.
Sgt. Rod Lucas died in October while talking with Mullis about how to carry backup weapons. A gun fired, hitting the 46-year-old Lucas in the chest.
Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims had said it appeared to be a tragic accident.
Court papers filed by prosecutors say Lucas died because Mullis was not cautious.
Mullis’ attorney Roger Wilson did not immediately respond Monday to a request for comment by The Associated Press.
He tells the Fresno Bee (https://bit.ly/2u1XJuD ) that his client is distraught over the death.
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Information from: The Fresno Bee, https://www.fresnobee.com
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