Idaho officials announced that four police officers will not face charges after fatally shooting an autistic teenager with a knife. The incident occurred on April 5, and prosecutors found insufficient evidence to prove the officers’ use of deadly force was unjustified. This decision was made public on September 4, 2025, during an investigation into the shooting.
- No charges filed against Pocatello officers
- Officers lacked knowledge of Perez’s disabilities
- Shooting occurred during a mental health crisis
- Officers shouted “drop the knife” five times
- Perez was shot nine times by police
- Idaho law permits deadly force in such cases
Victor Perez, 17, who had autism and cerebral palsy, grabbed a knife during a family barbecue. His sister was trying to take it away when police responded after a neighbor called. Officers arrived within seconds and shot Perez nine times. Body camera footage shows officers shouting “drop the knife” five times before firing. They did not know Perez’s age or disabilities, only what dispatch reported. The officers believed Perez was threatening others, and under Idaho law, they weren’t required to retreat before using deadly force. Perez later died after doctors amputated his leg. The attorney general’s office reviewed the case and concluded the officers acted reasonably given the circumstances.
- The officers responded to a report of a man trying to stab others with a knife.
- They arrived and moved to the backyard fence, then shot Perez after he approached them.
- They believed Perez posed an immediate threat, based on the dispatch report.
- The decision not to charge was based on evidence that Perez refused commands and pointed the knife at officers.
The case highlights challenges in responding to mental health crises and the importance of understanding disabilities during police encounters. The decision not to charge emphasizes the legal standards for justified use of force in Idaho.
As authorities review police conduct, this incident underscores the need for improved crisis response strategies, especially involving individuals with disabilities.
