A message from Chief Bryan Matthews regarding declination letter from Alameda County District Attorney’s Office

We are aware of and acknowledge Alameda County District AttorneyPamela Price'sdecision to decline to file criminal charges againstthe officers involved in the fatal shooting of Agustin Gonsalez. This does not come as a surprise as her decision alignswith those reached in multiple previousinvestigations, including those conducted by former Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O'Malley, former California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, and current California Attorney General Rob Bonta. Additionally, an administrative investigation conducted by the Hayward Police Department's Internal Affairs Unit determinedthe involved officers did not violate any administrative rule or department policy. In such cases, the Hayward Police Department conducts a comprehensive review in an effort to identifydepartmental training needs and possible modificationsto administrative rules and policies as part of our ongoing efforts to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.

We arealso aware of the independent review and analysis of this case, which was provided by an independent third party from the University of South Carolinaand I am always open to meaningful, accuratefeedback. The opinions offered have been taken under advisement. However, it should be noted that some of the opinions specific to this case and to the Hayward Police Department are inaccurate, lack context, and are not reflective of how we strive to train and respond to in-progress, critical incidents. In fact, nobody from the Hayward Police Department was contacted, interviewed, or otherwise consulted during this review and analysis.

TheHayward Police Department prides itself on meeting nationally recognized standardsand best practicesfor policies and training, as evidencedby our ongoing accreditation throughthe Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). Theaccreditation process invites outside scrutiny from subject matter experts and demonstratesour commitment to accountability, transparency, and continual improvement. As Chief, I am committed to ensuring this continues as we seekto provide the highest levels of service to our community.

Finally, werecognize this tragedy has and continues to have a profound impact on the family of Mr. Gonsalez, our community, and the members of the Hayward Police Department. I want toextendmyheartfelt sympathy and condolences to the Gonsalez family for their irreplaceable lossand I acknowledge the pain that the reopening of this case must have caused. My thoughts are with them as they continue to grieve the loss of Mr. Gonsalez,and as they continue their healing journey.

-Chief Bryan Matthews