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POST advisory board votes to decertify San Bernardino officer after video showed repeated strikes on prone suspect
Summary
The advisory board recommended decertification of San Bernardino Police Department Officer Hector Victorio after staff presented video and medical records showing repeated punches and knee strikes to a suspect lying prone following a high‑speed pursuit.
The Peace Officer Standards Accountability Advisory Board voted to decertify Officer Hector Victorio after staff presented body‑worn and witness video showing repeated punches and knee strikes to a prone suspect following a high‑speed pursuit and crash on Nov. 27, 2023.
Law enforcement consultant Michael Marshall summarized the events: after a pursuit that exceeded six minutes and reached speeds over 100 mph, the suspect’s vehicle struck a utility pole and the driver exited, lay face‑down and said he was on the ground. Marshall presented video showing Victorio running to the suspect and delivering multiple knee strikes and closed‑fist punches while the suspect had his hands above his head. Marshall said the encounter lasted roughly 19 seconds; investigators documented at least six punches and six knee strikes and medical records showing a closed fracture of the left orbital socket, lacerations, chipped teeth and abrasions.
San Bernardino police had administratively found Victorio’s use of force violated policy; the city later settled a civil claim with the victim for $450,000. The District Attorney declined to file criminal charges for lack of proof beyond a reasonable doubt. The department imposed a 40‑hour suspension (20 hours held in abeyance) and required de‑escalation training; Victorio was later demoted to a community service officer as part of a settlement.
Victorio spoke to the board, acknowledged his actions were unreasonable, accepted his agency discipline and said he has since pursued additional training and taken steps to improve his tactics. His counsel argued Victorio is a young officer whose errors occurred early in his career, that he has accepted discipline and training, and urged an alternative to revocation.
After closed‑session deliberation, the board returned and recorded roll‑call votes recommending decertification. The board’s recommendation now proceeds to the Commission for final action. The Commission will determine whether to adopt the recommendation or impose alternative discipline under POST authority.
