Unarmed but Acting Armed: Riverside OIS | Justified or Not?

Welcome back to another episode of Justified or Not? — the series where I show you the bodycam, and you give the verdict.

On May 8, 2025, Riverside Police officers responded to reports of an intoxicated man with two firearms inside a restaurant on Trautwein Road. Unbeknownst to the officers, the bar owner had taken one of the man’s guns and stored it in his vehicle.

When officers arrived, surveillance footage shows the suspect flipping them off, then walking toward them with one hand raised while the other manipulated his waistband near an empty holster. Believing the suspect was armed, officers opened fire, striking him. He was rendered medical aid, hospitalized, and later booked into custody.

The twist? The man was unarmed at the time of the shooting. Was this decision-making justified based on the circumstances and the suspect’s actions — or not?

⚠️ Viewer discretion is advised. This video is for educational and documentary purposes only, showing law enforcement response and public safety concerns.

👉 Watch until the end, then drop your verdict in the comments: Justified or Not?

🎥 Original Footage Credit: [Riverside Police Department]

📢 DISCLAIMER:
This video is presented for educational, commentary, and discussion purposes under Fair Use (17 U.S.C. § 107). The original footage has been transformed through voiceover, analysis, and editing for the purpose of public awareness, education, and critical conversation.

The intent of this content is not to glorify, sensationalize, or exploit any real-life events. Viewer discretion is advised. Some scenes may be disturbing.

We encourage respectful discussion and critical thinking regarding law enforcement decisions, human behavior, and public safety.

All footage belongs to its original owners and is used here in accordance with YouTube’s Fair Use policies.

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