LOS ANGELES — Calls for an independent investigation are intensifying following the fatal shooting of Keith Porter by an off-duty federal agent on New Year’s Eve. Porter’s family, represented by attorneys known for their involvement in high-profile civil rights cases, is now urging the California Attorney General to intervene, citing concerns over bias from local law enforcement.
At a news conference held Tuesday, attorneys Ben Crump and Jamal Tooson expressed their distrust in the LAPD and the federal Justice Department, questioning their ability to conduct a fair investigation into Porter’s death. They specifically pointed to comments made by LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell that, they allege, reflect an undue influence from the Trump administration.
The incident occurred at Porter’s residence in San Fernando Valley, where witnesses suggest he was returning to his apartment when the shooting happened. Eyewitness accounts indicate that Porter was not posing a threat, countering the Homeland Security’s description of him as an “active shooter.” Relatives claim he was celebrating the New Year by firing a gun into the air.
Tooson highlighted that witnesses reportedly did not hear the federal agent, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer, announce himself before discharging his weapon three times. “We have every reason to question claims of self-defense,” he stated, representing Porter’s mother, Franceola Armstrong.
Crump, although not acting as legal counsel for the family, voiced his support, emphasizing that the connection between the LAPD and ICE raises legitimacy concerns about the investigation. “The family fears that any probe will be compromised, and we will not stand by as this unfolds,” he remarked.
In response, a spokesperson for the LAPD noted that the investigation was ongoing, asserting their commitment to uncovering the circumstances surrounding Porter’s death. So far, no further details have been made available to the media.
Porter’s relatives insist that even if he was discharging a firearm, it was an act not intended to threaten anyone, and they argue that the federal agent should have awaited law enforcement assistance. Meanwhile, attorney Stacie Halpern, representing the ICE agent involved, suggested there is evidence indicating Porter fired first. A law enforcement source confirmed similar assertions would be investigated further.
Porter’s death has sparked outrage within the community, prompting increased activism at police commission meetings where speakers demand accountability for the ICE officer involved. Prior to the news conference, demonstrators raised their voices, calling for immediate action against the agent who fired the fatal shots.
In light of these events, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office expressed confidence in the LAPD’s probe. They reassured the public that once the case is presented to them, it would undergo a meticulous examination, adhering to the same rigorous standards applied to all use-of-force cases.
The officer involved, identified as Brian Palacios, has previously faced scrutiny during a custody dispute over allegations of child abuse and racial remarks, though Halpern has denied any such claims. Reports confirm he no longer resides at the apartment complex where the incident occurred.
As the investigation unfolds, Armstrong remains steadfast in her pursuit of justice for her son, lamenting the loss of her child. “I cannot bring him back, but I will fight for justice in his name,” she affirmed, her grief palpable in the continuing aftermath of this tragedy.