November 22, 2010

Houston police are investigating an incident in which a Houston police officer discharged his duty weapon at a robbery suspect in the 7200 block of Rhobell about 12:30 a.m. today (Nov. 22).

The male suspect suffered a non life-threatening gunshot wound and was transported to Ben Taub General Hospital. His identity and the identity of a second suspect taken into custody at the scene are being withheld pending an ongoing investigation by the HPD Robbery Division.

Officer C. E. Dorton, who discharged his duty weapon, was not injured in this incident. Officer Dorton, assigned to the Northeast Patrol Division, was sworn in as an officer in October 2008.

HPD Homicide Division Sergeant G. Gonzales and Officer R. Olive reported:

Northeast patrol officers received information regarding multiple robberies and a description of the suspects' vehicle involved. The vehicle was located and officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The suspects, described only as two black males, fled in the vehicle to an apartment complex at 7071 Parker Road. Both suspects then got out of the vehicle and fled on foot. With help from an HPD helicopter, officers were able to locate one of the suspects in the back yard of a residence at 7200 Rhobell. Officer Dorton gave repeated verbal commands for the suspect to stop, but he refused and continued to flee. At some point, the suspect suddenly stopped and turned towards the officer while reaching into his waistband. Concerned for his safety, Officer Dorton discharged his duty weapon several times and struck the suspect once. The suspect was taken into custody and transported by paramedics to the hospital.

Both suspects are in custody at this time.

As is customary in HPD officer-involved shootings occuring in the city limits, this case is being investigated by the HPD Homicide and Internal Affairs Divisions, as well as the Harris County District Attorney's Office.

 

http://www.houstontx.gov/police/nr/2010/nov/nr112210-7.htm