AUSTIN (KXAN) — Court wrapped up before the weekend break with the viewing of graphic bodycam video from the night Austin Police officer Daniel Sanchez shot and killed 33-year-old Rajan Moonesinghe while responding to a 911 call about Moonesinghe walking around his south Austin home with a rifle in November of 2022.
On Monday, the State called the remainder of its witnesses.
In 2023, a grand jury indicted Sanchez on a Deadly Conduct charge, which holds a punishment range of 2-10 years in prison. Probation is possible for individuals who do not have a criminal record.
You can view a recap of Monday’s testimony at the ‘X’ link below.
The State had the following witnesses testify:
- Use-of-force expert
- Security guard who called 911 to report Moonesinghe with a rifle
- Moonesinghe’s neighbor
- APD sergeant who investigated the shooting
- Two officers who responded alongside Sanchez that night
- Medical examiner who conducted the autopsy
- Two digital forensics experts who reconstructed some video evidence
- Moonesinghe’s mother Ruth
View previous coverage here of the proceedings thus far.
During opening statements, Sanchez’s attorney Brad Heilman revealed an autopsy report found cocaine in Moonesinghe’s system and a BAC of .33.
“That’s a dangerous situation,” he said.
Prosecutors are arguing this was a case of excessive force, and Moonesinghe was not harming or going to harm police.
Moonesinghe’s family has also filed a wrongful death lawsuit. Moonesinghe was a tech entrepreneur living in south Austin. The lawsuit includes a call for additional de-escalation training and incentives for officers who successfully de-escalate situations.
Sanchez’ attorneys said there was a perceived deadly threat and Sanchez acted in accordance with his training and on the grounds of protecting the public, as well as himself and the other responding officers.
When Sanchez was first indicted, APD issued a statement saying the department stood by him.
There will be no court proceedings on Tuesday, the courthouse is closed for Veterans Day. The Defense will begin to call its witnesses on Wednesday.
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