The Denver Post
Turney describes day he shot teen
Thursday, October 21, 2004 -
Denver Police Officer James Turney testified today in his appeal to have his 10-month suspension from duty lifted.
Turney was suspended in April after he shot and killed 15-year-old Paul Childs, a developmentally disabled boy, in July 2003. The shooting triggered community outrage. Today, Turney talked about the events that led up to the shooting. He responded to Childs' home after an emergency call that the boy was threatening his family with a large knife. When Turney arrived at the house, he got everyone out except for Childs. He then asked Childs to come out with this hands raised, Turney said. Childs then moved slowly toward the officer holding the knife, Turney said. The officer said he feared for his life when Childs got too close, so he fired at him. Childs was shot four times and died. The appeal is being heard by a former appeals court judge and Turney is being cross examined by attorneys for the City of Denver. The appeal can go on for a maximum of nine days. Once the appeal proceedings are concluded, the judge will have up to 30 days to decide if Turney will remain suspended. Denver Police Chief Gerry Whitman originally recommended a 20-day suspension for Turney. However, Denver City Manager Al LaCabe decided on the final 10-month suspension. For more, go to 9NEWS.com and watch 9NEWS at noon, 4, 5, 6
and 10. |