Glendale Police Officer Gonzalo Zendejas has been charged with assault under the color of authority by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
The charge follows a June 5, 2021, incident at the Glendale Galleria, where Glendale Police Officers responded to a reported retail burglary. Officers located multiple suspects inside the mall and attempted to detain one suspect who resisted, leading to a struggle. During this incident, Officer Zendejas was caught on camera kicking a 17-year-old suspect in the face, an action that subsequently went viral. This video showed Zendejas and other officers involved in a physical altercation with the suspect at a Dick’s Sporting Goods store, where the teenager was suspected of shoplifting.
Following the incident, the Glendale Police Department initiated an internal investigation and placed all involved officers on administrative leave. Additionally, they sought assistance from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office to ensure a comprehensive and transparent review, including any potential criminal actions.
The Glendale Police Department’s internal administrative investigation is ongoing, pending the completion of the criminal investigation. Throughout the investigation, the Glendale Police Department has cooperated fully, providing all necessary reports, statements, audio, and video evidence to the District Attorney’s Office to aid in their process.
“The Glendale Police Department is committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards in service and ensuring those we encounter daily are treated with dignity, respect, and professionalism, regardless of their background or circumstances,” a department spokesperson stated.
For inquiries regarding the criminal filing specifics, please contact the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office at (213) 974-3512 or refer to their Press Release at da.lacounty.gov.
