A Riverside County sheriff’s deputy is under investigation after being seen on video appearing to use a dating app during a standoff with an armed suspect in Jurupa Valley, authorities said.
The video, captured by CBS News, shows the deputy scrolling on his phone while taking cover behind an armored vehicle during the hours-long standoff following a pursuit crash.
In a statement, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office said it is aware of the video circulating on social media.
“This behavior does not reflect the standards, expectations, or policies of our department,” the statement said. “We have initiated an internal investigation and will take appropriate action based on the findings. The Sheriff’s Office remains committed to professionalism and holding our employees accountable.”
Deputies attempted to stop a suspect wanted for grand theft Wednesday afternoon in Jurupa Valley, but the driver fled. During the pursuit, deputies attempted to deploy a grappler tether device, designed to bring high-speed pursuits to safe conclusions, but it failed to stop the vehicle before it crashed into a wall near a residential neighborhood, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
After the crash, the suspect refused to exit the vehicle or comply with commands. The Sheriff’s Crisis Negotiation Team responded and attempted to negotiate a peaceful surrender.
When the suspect stopped communicating, deputies from the Special Enforcement Bureau approached the vehicle and found the driver suffering from injuries consistent with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Paramedics rendered aid, but the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not released the suspect’s identity.