We take for granted the idea that police officers will live up to their motto, ‘To protect and serve.’ That is the hope of anyone who is facing a serious charge like a DUI. Unfortunately, however, there are those who are put in positions of authority who don’t always do the right thing.
CBS in Los Angeles reported on Tuesday, July 20, 2021, that a Los Angeles Police Department officer has been arrested on the charges of falsifying a DUI arrest report and perjury.
A spokesperson for the LAPD said in a statement that Officer Alejandro Castillo, a 13-year-veteran officer of the LAPD’s West Traffic Division, had been relieved of his duties and his police powers.
An LAPD internal affairs investigation of Castillo’s arrest reports for 2019 was launched after inconsistencies were discovered. Investigators found that there were notable discrepancies between Castillo’s arrest reports and corresponding body cam footage. So far, LAPD officials have not released any further details regarding the arrest.
In a statement, Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore told reporters:
“The allegations of an officer falsifying a police report are extremely troubling, and there must be accountability. This department is fully cooperating with the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office in this matter.”
Because of the internal affairs investigation of Castillo, the allegations of a DUI suspect could not be filed.
Castillo was placed under arrest and booked into the Metropolitan Detention Center. He was later released on bond.
