For the first time in 20 years, a police officer in Los Angeles was convicted for charges in a deadly shooting.
The Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office announced the conviction of former L.A. County Sheriff’s deputy Andrew Lyons, who is expected to be sentenced to 30 days in county jail and up to two-years’ formal probation; the maximum term allowed by law. The former deputy will also voluntarily give up his certification as a peace officer.
Lyons, 37, pleaded no contest to one felony count of assault with a semi-automatic firearm and one count of assault under the color of authority in the shooting death of Willowbrook native Ryan Twyman.
“Today, justice has been served for Mr. Twyman’s family who have spent years mourning the loss of their loved one,” District Attorney George Gascón said. “This verdict reflects my office’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every individual, regardless of their profession, is held accountable for their actions.”
District Attorney Gascón said this conviction would “send a message,” of accountability from law enforcement.
“I would like to commend the dedicated efforts of my office’s Justice System Integrity Division who worked tirelessly to prosecute this case,” Gascón said. “This conviction sends a strong message that no one is above the law. Our aim is not to undermine the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers who serve our communities. However, accountability is paramount to maintaining public trust and ensuring that the principles of justice are upheld.”
The shooting took place in June 2019, after officers responded to a call in the Willowbrook neighborhood and approached Twyman in his car. Twyman allegedly backed up his car toward the officers, with Lyons shooting into the vehicle with a semiautomatic rifle.