Timothy Johnson (2023)

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Overview

Full BWC Release

On February 22, 2023, Johnson stole some merchandise from a store at a shopping mall. The store called the Fairfax County Virginia Police Department and Sergeant Wesley Shifflett responded. Shifflett chased Johnson through a parking garage, down the street, and into a wooded area. Johnson refused orders to get on the ground. Shifflett claimed that he saw Johnson reaching for his waistband, and he and Officer James Sadler fired at Johnson.[1][2][3]

Additional officers rendered aid to Johnson.[1]

Shifflett waited for permission to turn off his body-worn camera.[1]

Johnson was struck once in the chest, and died at the hospital.[2]

Sadler was placed on restricted duty.[4]

On March 23, 2023, Shifflett was fired as his actions showed "a failure to live up to the expectations of our agency, in particular use of force policies".[4]

On April 17, 2023, a grand jury declined to indict Shifflett in Johnson's death.[5]

In April 2023, the Fairfax Commonwealth's Attorney requested a special grand jury review the case. Unlike during a regular grand jury, prosecutors at a special grand jury can call witnesses and influence the information that is being presented to the jurors.[6]

On October 12, 2023, a special grand jury indicted Shifflett on felony charges for involuntary manslaughter and reckless discharge of a weapon.[7]

Video

Officers Involved


References