On May 3, 2023, a veteran Los Angeles Police Department detective was involved in a collision on the 5 Freeway. Detective Stephanie Carrillo, 47, reportedly collided with another vehicle while driving an unmarked LAPD car. Prosecutors have now charged Carrillo with hit-and-run for her alleged involvement in the incident.
The episode began when both cars were apparently damaged in the initial contact, leading both drivers to pull over. However, Carrillo is accused of leaving the scene without fulfilling her legal duties. The incident was then followed by Carrillo making a report later the same day at a California Highway Patrol station in Orange County, claiming she had been the victim of a hit-and-run.
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing that the alleged actions of Detective Carrillo undermine public trust and contravene the responsibilities and oath of law enforcement officers to ensure public safety. The investigation into the crash was conducted by the CHP’s East Los Angeles station.
The LAPD disclosed that Detective Carrillo has been with the department for 24 years, providing her extensive service record. In response to the incident, the LAPD’s Internal Affairs Division launched an investigation, resulting in Carrillo being stripped of her police powers pending the outcome of the investigation. The LAPD, supervised by the Inspector General, promised thorough administrative accountability.
Source: Los Angeles Times
