UPDATE: A former Torrance police officer, David Chandler Jr., pleaded guilty on November 5, 2023, to a felony count of assault stemming from a controversial on-duty shooting that left a man seriously wounded. In a deal with prosecutors, Chandler’s case is set to be dismissed in one year, allowing him to avoid a conviction.
Chandler, age 37, admitted to one count of assault by an officer and must complete 100 hours of community service, as well as relinquish his peace officer certification in California. His attorney, Tom Yu, confirmed that Chandler will ultimately walk away without a criminal record following this plea.
The incident occurred on August 27, 2018, when Chandler shot at Jarvis Goode, who was exiting his grandmother’s home in Torrance while allegedly brandishing a knife. Goode was reportedly fleeing from police when Chandler fired multiple rounds. During a hearing in August 2023, authorities reviewed body camera footage, revealing that while initial shots could have been justified to protect Goode’s grandmother, Chandler’s actions thereafter were deemed excessive.
Deputy District Attorney Guy Shirley argued that Chandler’s continued shooting was unlawful. In contrast, Yu maintained that his client had mere seconds to make a life-or-death decision, emphasizing Goode’s threatening behavior.
The incident has drawn public attention, particularly from Goode’s grandmother, Margo Goode, who testified about the traumatic experience. She described the scene as chaotic, saying, “It scared me to death… It was so traumatizing. I almost got hit.” Margo had initially called the police due to her grandson’s troubling behavior, which included damaging her property.
Following the shooting, Chandler is reported to no longer be employed by the Torrance Police Department. This case marks the third instance in just over a week where a current or former Torrance officer faced criminal charges, highlighting an alarming trend within the department.
In related news, two officers, Christopher Tomsic and Cody Weldin, pleaded guilty to felony vandalism after a swastika was found in an impounded vehicle in 2020. Both received probation and community service, alongside additional requirements aimed at addressing anti-racism.
This case is critical not only for the individuals involved but also for the larger conversation about police accountability and community safety. With Chandler’s plea agreement now concluded, attention shifts to how the Torrance community will respond and what implications this will have for police practices moving forward.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation continues to develop.
