PNP to file charges vs rookie cop who fired gun during confrontation with 'noisy' kids
Courtesy of National Capital Region Police Office
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Friday, Dec. 26, that it will pursue both administrative and criminal charges against an irate police officer who allegedly fired his service firearm during a confrontation with three “noisy” children using firecrackers in Parañaque City.
Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., acting PNP chief, said investigators are now establishing the full circumstances of the incident as he stressed that a firm response will follow once the probe confirms that serious violations were committed.
Based on the report of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), the 28-year-old patrolman assigned to the Maritime Group (PNP-MG) was arrested early Christmas Day, Dec. 25, in Parañaque City over alleged grave threats, child abuse, and indiscriminate discharge of a firearm.
Police said the suspect was apprehended on Dec. 24 along Culdesac Road in Barangay Sun Valley after three minors, aged 10, 12, and 15, reported that he confronted them over firecracker noise and fired his 9mm service firearm in front of them.
Responding officers recovered the patrolman’s issued firearm, a magazine with three live rounds, an empty cartridge case, and his PNP ID.
The patrolman remains in custody while complaints are prepared for filing in court.
“The Philippine National Police will never tolerate any behavior that compromises public safety and the trust of the people,” Nartatez said.
Police officers, he said, are expected to serve as role models in their communities. He stressed that responsible gun ownership and discipline are basic standards for those in uniform.
Further, Nartatez said that abuse of authority within the organization will be dealt with accordingly.
However, Nartatez said the actions of one officer do not define the entire police force.
He reiterated that the PNP remains committed to protecting the public and enforcing accountability within its ranks.
The rookie cop will face charges for grave threats in relation to Republic Act No. 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act) and violation of Republic Act No. 11926 (Indiscriminate Discharge of Firearms).