Zambrano Shooting Coroner’s Inquest Set To Begin December 12
Apparently, Franklin County Coroner Dan Blasdell's goal will actually be realized.
Nearly two years after the fatal shooting of Antonio Zambrano by Pasco police officers after he was throwing rocks and endangering passers by and motorists during a meth-fueled rage, the coroner's inquest is set to start December 12th.
According to NW Cable News, subpoenas were issued to key witnesses and others in the case, a total of about a dozen who will be questioned.
The inquest is for advisory purposes only, does not carry any criminal charge authority, and the results will be passed onto the Franklin County prosecutor for his decision whether to charge anyone.
The U.S. District Attorney's Office for Eastern Washington declined to pursue any criminal charges against Pasco police, upholding the results of the SIU (special investigation unit) report.
Previously, it was set for August, then pushed back again, after many other delays. Franklin County officials approved a supplemental budget of $35,000 to cover the costs.
Retired King County Superior Court Judge Michael J. Fox will oversee the proceedings, which will take place at CBC. Previously this year, Attorney General Bob Ferguson also reviewed the SIU report and investigation, and agreed with Prosecutor Sean Sant that no charges were warranted against the Pasco officers.
Critics say it's a waste of taxpayer dollars, especially since the Justice Department and AG have gone along with the SIU report. They say since the incident, numerous positive changes and programs have been implemented in the police department to improve public relations and how to deal with such situations.