AUSTIN, Texas – In a groundbreaking turn of events, former Uvalde schools police officers are facing indictments for their actions during a tragic school shooting at Robb Elementary that resulted in the deaths of 19 fourth-grade students and two teachers. This marks the first time law enforcement officials have been charged for their response to such a devastating event.
Former Uvalde schools police Chief Pete Arredondo and former Officer Adrian Gonzales were indicted on multiple counts of child endangerment and abandonment by a Uvalde County grand jury. The indictments stem from the officers’ failure to immediately confront the 18-year-old gunman who carried out the shooting. Families of the victims have expressed relief at the indictments but also frustration that more officers have not been charged for their delayed response.
The shooting, which took place on May 24, 2022, saw over 370 officers respond to the scene but waited over 70 minutes to confront the shooter. Terrified students inside classrooms made desperate calls for help as parents pleaded for intervention. Despite hearing gunshots, some officers hesitated to enter the building. It took a tactical team to eventually confront and neutralize the shooter.
The indictments allege that Chief Arredondo delayed the police response despite being aware of the ongoing danger. He reportedly attempted to negotiate with the gunman instead of taking immediate action. Officer Gonzales, on the other hand, was accused of not confronting the shooter despite hearing the gunshots. Both face state jail felonies that carry up to two years in jail if convicted.
In addition to the criminal charges, families of the victims have pursued accountability through civil lawsuits. One such lawsuit involves nearly 100 state police officers who were part of the botched response. The families allege that the officers did not follow their active shooter training protocols. As legal proceedings unfold, the community continues to seek justice and closure in the wake of the tragic event.
The implications of these indictments extend beyond the individuals involved, opening up discussions about police accountability and protocol in responding to similar crises. As the legal battles unfold, the families affected by the tragedy are focused on ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions – or inactions – on that fateful day.