Judge Denies Dismissal in Fatal Shooting Case of Steven Taylor

UPDATE: An Alameda County judge has just denied a motion to dismiss the high-profile case against former San Leandro police officer Jason Fletcher, who is accused of fatally shooting Steven Taylor in a Walmart in 2020. The ruling was made today, October 20, 2023, and family members of Taylor expressed their relief and emotions outside the Alameda County Superior Courthouse immediately following the decision.

Taylor’s grandmother, Addie Kitchen, was visibly emotional as she spoke to reporters. “Five years and 7 months, we have been fighting just to get to this point,” she stated, highlighting the long struggle for justice. Kitchen had submitted a letter ahead of the hearing, urging the judge to consider the family’s rights under California law, citing numerous delays in the legal process.

“I’m glad that the judge felt the need to present the case to a jury. Let the jury make a decision,” Kitchen added, emphasizing the importance of accountability. Taylor was shot by Fletcher during an incident where he was suspected of shoplifting. Witnesses and community advocates have criticized the district attorney’s office for not adequately pursuing justice for Taylor, with many calling for systemic change.

Community leaders have voiced their frustrations, including Cat Brooks, Executive Director of the Anti-Police Terror Project. “Your job is to represent the people, and we are the people,” Brooks asserted. “Nancy O’Malley, the district attorney who charged this cop, had never charged a cop in her entire tenure. Jason Fletcher was the first one.” Brooks continued, “There are a bazillion things he could have done” to de-escalate the situation.

The circumstances surrounding Taylor’s death include cellphone footage showing Fletcher attempting to disarm Taylor, who had been swinging a baseball bat. After Taylor refused to drop the bat and was Tased, Fletcher shot him, leading to charges of manslaughter for using unreasonable deadly force.

Taylor’s family has maintained that he suffered from mental health issues and had prior interactions with the San Leandro Police Department. Taylor’s mother, Sharon Taylor, expressed her gratitude that the case will proceed to trial. “I’m grateful that this wasn’t dismissed. Pushed under the rug,” she said, indicating the family’s determination for justice.

As this case moves forward, Fletcher has sought to relocate the trial out of Alameda County; however, a decision made earlier this year confirmed it will remain in the county. The trial’s progression is a significant development for the community, which has been closely following the case.

The next steps involve jury selection, which is expected to commence shortly. As the case unfolds, it will undoubtedly serve as a focal point for discussions surrounding police accountability and the handling of mental health crises by law enforcement.

For ongoing updates, stay tuned as we follow this critical case and its implications for justice in the community.