San Bernardino County deputies face lawsuit over fatal shooting of unarmed man

The family of Jaque Rabon, a 23-year-old Black man, has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit following his fatal shooting by San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies on January 22. The lawsuit alleges excessive force during an incident at a Riverside shopping center.

Deputies were attempting to serve a felony warrant on Rabon, who authorities described as a documented gang member wanted in connection with robbery and assault. During a foot chase, deputies opened fire, striking Rabon at least 20 times. While officials stated that Rabon reached toward a bag, causing them to fear he was armed, no weapon was recovered at the scene. Rabon’s sister stated the bag contained only identification and cash.

Body camera footage released by the department shows the pursuit and several gunshots, including a command to “Cease fire!” Attorney Dale Galipo, representing the family, is seeking accountability for the circumstances of the shooting, questioning whether reaching toward a bag justified the use of deadly force.