Sherif Yesenia Sanchez Supports Alameda Police

Published on April 19, 2024

Sherif Yesenia Sanchez supports the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Investigator’s findings in the 2021 Alameda Police Department’s in-custody death of Mario Gonzalez

Oakland, Calif. – On Thursday, April 18, 2024, Pamela Price, Alameda County District Attorney, announced criminal charges related to the 2021 death of Mario Gonzalez, who died in the Alameda Police Department's (APD) custody. Three APD officers were involved.

As a result of Mr. Gonzalez's unfortunate death, the Alameda Police Department requested the Alameda County Sheriff's Office (ACSO) conduct an independent investigation into the case. The ACSO agreed and conducted a thorough, independent examination of the circumstances and evidence related to Mr. Gonzalez's death.

Sheriff Sanchez said, "I stand behind the Alameda County Sheriff's Office investigation into the APD's 2021 in-custody death of Mr. Mario Gonzalez. Our investigative team thoroughly reviewed every detail of the case. Mr. Gonzalez's actions raised concerns about public safety and led to calls to the APD for assistance. Our Eden Township Substation investigative team worked tirelessly to present a thorough case for review to the District Attorney's Office, which ultimately determined that there was no criminal wrongdoing on behalf of the involved officers and chose not to pursue criminal actions against them.”

Sheriff Sanchez expressed empathy for Mr. Gonzalez's son and other family members, as it is always difficult to experience the loss of a loved one. However, it is essential to look at the totality of this case and understand that law enforcement must protect community members from potential dangers. Unfortunately, Mr. Gonzalez's pre-existing medical conditions and the level of toxicity of methamphetamine found in his system during the autopsy contributed to his death as APD officers tried to overcome his resistance.

“I support the findings of the ACSO investigators on the case and firmly believe that the March 2022 determination of no criminal wrongdoing by former District Attorney Nancy O’Mally two years ago was an appropriate call to make," stated Sheriff Sanchez. 

Media inquiries can be directed to Sergeant Roberto Morales at (510) 942-9834 or Captain Tya M. Modeste at (510) 225-5872.

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