AUSTIN, Texas – Over three years have passed since the fatal encounter between Alex Gonzales Jr. and Austin police, sparking renewed calls for transparency as his family demands the release of internal affairs investigative files.

Seeking Transparency

The family’s attorneys argue that releasing the internal affairs files would provide insight into the circumstances surrounding Gonzales Jr.’s death, allowing the public to form their own judgments. These files, known as G-files, contain internal affairs reports and complaints against officers involved in incidents. Despite calls for transparency, the city has yet to release these documents related to Gonzales Jr.’s case.

Formal Complaint Filed

The family of Alex Gonzales Jr. recently lodged a formal complaint against Officer Gabriel Gutierrez with the Office of Police Oversight. The incident, initially framed as a road rage altercation, saw Gutierrez claiming that Gonzales had cut him off and brandished a firearm. However, attorneys representing the Gonzales family dispute this narrative, alleging that Gutierrez acted recklessly before shooting Gonzales and his girlfriend, who was accompanied by their infant child.

Video Footage Released

In a move towards transparency, the Austin Police Department released body camera footage of the fatal encounter. Despite this release, the family’s attorneys are adamant about making the internal affairs investigative files public. They argue that such transparency is necessary to evaluate the quality of the internal investigation and ensure accountability within the police department.

Legal Battles for Disclosure

Attorney Austin Kaplan highlights the legal battle surrounding the confidentiality of these files, suggesting that the city faces challenges in withholding them. He emphasizes the importance of public access to allegations made against public officials, particularly in cases involving police conduct.

Potential Impact

Although a Travis County Grand Jury declined to indict the officers involved in 2022, the release of internal affairs files could potentially alter the trajectory of the case. Kaplan speculates on the possibility of uncovering instances where officers were cleared without sufficient cause, underscoring the significance of transparency in maintaining public trust.

Conclusion: Upholding Transparency and Accountability

As the legal battle over the release of internal affairs files unfolds, the case of Alex Gonzales Jr. remains a focal point in the ongoing discourse surrounding police accountability. The demand for transparency reflects a broader societal concern for ensuring accountability within law enforcement agencies. In the pursuit of justice, transparency and accountability must remain paramount.

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