A suspect charged with attempted murder in connection with the shooting of a Vallejo police officer during a burglary last month has pleaded not guilty to all counts. During the arraignment at the Solano Justice Building in Vallejo, Judge Jon Rolefson ordered 29-year-old Jamazea Kittell to return to court on September 13 for a hearing before his preliminary examination, which is set to begin on September 20, according to court documents.
Represented by Assistant Public Defender Nick Filloy, Kittell remained held without bail at the Justice Center Detention Facility in Fairfield. Assistant District Attorney Paul Sequeira represented the prosecution during the hearing.
The incident occurred on June 27, following reports of a break-in at a Vallejo gas station. A video released by the Vallejo Police Department captured the dramatic sequence of events. Officer Brad Kim can be seen emanating from his patrol car, shouting commands to the suspect: “Let me see your hands!” Four gunshots are heard as a Dodge Charger, which the suspect had entered, abruptly accelerates, knocking the officer down. After crashing into a pole in a nearby parking lot, the suspect, later identified as Kittell, exits the vehicle and collapses. Officer Kim quickly apprehends Kittell and waits for medical assistance.
Kittell now faces charges of attempted murder of a peace officer, commercial burglary, receiving stolen property, and unlawful driving or taking of a vehicle.
Questions regarding the exact timeline of the incident persist, despite the release of the footage and a town hall meeting addressing the case. Interim Police Chief Jason Ta confirmed at the meeting that Kittell, a resident of Modesto, was shot in the mouth region. He appeared at the arraignment in a wheelchair, with visible stitches around his nostrils.
Multiple investigations are ongoing in compliance with agency policies. The Major Crimes Task Force of the Solano County District Attorney’s Office will conduct a criminal investigation, while the independent Renne Public Law Group will review the incident. Within the Vallejo Police Department, the Critical Incident Review Board will examine the officers’ actions and determine their compliance with agency training and policy.
As this story develops, we will continue to provide updated details surrounding this shocking incident. Stay tuned for further updates on this violent crime that highlights the risks law enforcement officers face daily in the line of duty.
Author: Ryan Scott
Just a guy
