California's police shooting investigation program has faced significant challenges in its first five years, closing 41 cases without recommending charges against an officer for killing an unarmed person. - Investigations average nearly two years and five months, with some exceeding three years.
- Statutes of limitations for crimes like involuntary manslaughter expire after three years, preventing charges. - Decertification deadlines also expire after three years, limiting accountability.
- Local prosecutors and police often defer to the state DOJ, reducing local pressure and parallel investigations. The program's underfunding and slow pace raise concerns about accountability for police shootings in California.