LAPD sergeant is charged in crash that injured motorist during pursuit
A Los Angeles police sergeant was charged Friday with one count of misdemeanor reckless driving causing injury after a crash last spring that occurred during a pursuit, the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office said.
In the May 6 incident, Sgt. Ruby Aguirre, a 14-year Los Angeles Police Department veteran, is accused of running a red light at the intersection of Jefferson Boulevard and Western Avenue and striking a sedan.
One person suffered serious injuries and was taken to a hospital.
The suspect is identified as Enrique Barajas Gutierrez, father of one of the wounded. His relationship with the other two victims, including the one who died, is not yet known.
“Sworn police officers have a responsibility to obey all laws, particularly when they are on the job and in uniform,” Dist. Atty. George Gascón said in a news release. “Fortunately, no one died in this instance but it will leave an indelible mark on the victim. My office’s Bureau of Victim Services is available to provide needed services or resources to help the victim during her recovery.”
The LAPD said in a statement that it was aware of the charges against Aguirre, who had been given a “non-field” assignment.
The department said it was “fully cooperating” with the district attorney’s office.
Aguirre is scheduled to be arraigned April 17.
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