Rampart C.R.A.S.H. officers Mario Rios and Michael Montoya detained and handcuffed 16-year-old Eric Vega before transporting him to a rival gang’s territory, where they ultimately dropped him off. Tragically, minutes later, Eric Vega was shot dead.
For years the officers failed to inform anyone that they had left Vega in the area where he was killed. They finally admitted they dropped the tean in gang territory when they were forced using compelled testimony — which is inadmissible in court.
The District Attorney highlighted that the officers not only failed to disclose this critical information but also obstructed justice. However, due to the compelled nature of their testimony, the District Attorney was unable to prosecute Rios and Montoya.
LAPD Rampart C.R.A.S.H. officer Mario Rios obstructed justice in death of 16 year old Eric Vega
