Opening statements are set to begin Tuesday in the criminal trial of Adrian Gonzales, a former Uvalde school police officer accused of endangering children during the 2022 Robb Elementary School shooting.
Charges Linked to Shooting Response
Gonzales faces 29 counts of child endangerment, with prosecutors alleging he failed to follow his training and duty during the law enforcement response to the massacre that killed 19 children and two teachers. Nearly 400 officers responded, but it took 77 minutes to confront and kill the shooter.
Jury Selection Marked by Frustration
Judge Sid Harle seated a full jury Monday after an emotional selection process. Many potential jurors criticized police actions that day, with more than 100 excused after saying they could not remain impartial. Several voiced anger that officers did not act sooner.
Defense Says Gonzales Is a Scapegoat
Gonzales has pleaded not guilty. His attorneys argue he is being unfairly blamed for systemic law enforcement failures. Some dismissed jurors echoed that sentiment, questioning why more officers were not charged.
Rare Case of Criminal Accountability
Gonzales was charged alongside former school police chief Pete Arredondo, whose trial is delayed. The case is only the second in U.S. history seeking to criminally hold an officer accountable for a mass shooting response, a legal path experts say is difficult to prove.
For updates on the trial, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.