Sheriff Rips Deputy for Dating App Use During SWAT Standoff
Footage has surfaced showing a California deputy seemingly swiping through a dating app while an armed standoff unfolded nearby, prompting sharp criticism from the local sheriff.
The events transpired on April 8 in Jurupa Valley, where a suspect's reckless pursuit ended in a crash close to a high school. What began as a chase escalated into a prolonged standoff, with SWAT teams surrounding the suspect's vehicle as he refused to comply with orders to surrender.
In a striking moment captured by aerial cameras, one deputy was seen behind an armored vehicle, engrossed in his phone, apparently scrolling through potential matches. The video quickly gained traction online, igniting outrage over the deputy's apparent lack of focus during such a critical operation.
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco expressed his dismay, stating he felt “shocked,” “embarrassed,” and “angry” upon viewing the footage. He characterized the deputy's behavior as a “slap in the face” to his fellow officers, emphasizing that such conduct falls far short of the department's expectations during high-stakes incidents.
Bianco confirmed that the deputy has been identified and that an internal investigation is underway, with accountability measures anticipated. Despite the viral nature of the incident, officials reiterated that the standoff remained perilous throughout, with deputies employing various tactics, including less-lethal options and robotic assistance, while the officer was preoccupied with his phone.
@cbsla Riverside County Sheriff and Republican gubernatorial candidate Chad Bianco is responding after SkyCal video appeared to show a SWAT deputy using a dating app during a standoff with an armed suspect.
♬ original sound - CBS LA
The standoff concluded tragically when the suspect was discovered deceased from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. As of now, the sheriff’s office has not disclosed any disciplinary actions against the deputy, but Bianco made it clear that the footage does not represent the standards expected during SWAT operations.
In related news, a Florida man was arrested after showing police an AI-generated video of individuals breaking into a patrol car. Additionally, police bodycam footage captured Alan Ritchson alleging that Ronnie Taylor was intoxicated during a viral altercation. Meanwhile, kick streamer N3on found himself detained by law enforcement during a live-streamed swatting incident.
