On Monday, Louisiana prosecutors annexed another felony charge against the former state police officer reportedly responsible for the shooting death of an unarmed Black man, AP News reported.
Shreveport police officer Alexander Tyler had a felony malfeasance charge added to the first-degree negligent homicide charge he’s currently facing for the fatal shooting of Alonzo Bagley, 43, at an apartment complex early this year.
Dhu Thompson, Tyler’s defense attorney, told AP News that although the additional charge was unfortunate, he was ready to appear before a jury to present the case’s facts.
“These charges are extremely disappointing,” Thompson commented. “However, we have been prepared since day one to bring the case and facts therein to an impartial jury. We look forward to our day in court.”
Tyler pleaded not guilty to felony malfeasance and first-degree negligent homicide, carrying sentences of up to five years.
On Feb. 3, 2023, officers responded to a domestic disturbance call from Bagley’s wife, who reported to police that an inebriated Bagley threatened her and their daughter.
Bodycam footage displayed when officers arrived at the apartment, Bagley answered the door and gave the officers his name but refused to step outside the apartment.
He then told officers he needed to lock his dog up before disappearing into a room and closing the door. Officers called out to him and followed the 43-year-old into the bedroom, witnessing him climb over the balcony to escape.
Officers ran out the front door to attempt to catch Bagley. Gun drawn, Tyler caught up to his partner, who also caught up to Bagley, and the former officer’s gun fired despite Bagley being unarmed.
Both officers plead for Bagley to stay alive, and the partner commands Tyler to direct medical personnel to them. The partner’s bodycam showed him yelling for Bagley to “keep breathing,” “respond,” “look at [him]” and “wake up.”
However, Bagley was gone.
The following month, Tyler resigned after two years as an officer and was arraigned for his actions. Bagley’s family also sued Tyelr for $10 million with the help of state attorney Ronald Haley, who also represented Ronald Greene’s family, the Black man Louisiana officers fatally beat and mistreated after a car chase.
Below is the bodycam footage. Please be warned that many viewers may find the video content graphic and triggering.
