On December 5, 2018, Officer Pech conducted a search of a suspect’s apartment and seized a firearm without legal justification.
Following the suspect’s arrest, Pech and other officers performed a protective sweep of the residence. Afterwards, Pech continued with another search and seized the gun without the suspect’s consent or a warrant.
Officer Pech’s actions were determined to lack legal grounds, as there were no exigent circumstances justifying the seizure. The investigation found this to constitute misconduct, and it was recommended that Allegations 1 (illegal search) and 7 (unlawful seizure) be classified as sustained.
Internal Affairs documents detailing LAPD officer Christopher Pech illegal search of a residence
