Los Angeles: On July 25, 2005, at 3:45 a.m., Newton officers responded to a radio call of an “Assault With a Deadly Weapon Suspect” at 8th Street and Ceres Street. A citizen had reported a man fighting with people who had just committed an “Attempted Theft.”  When officers arrived they encountered a male, Hispanic, who was later identified as Eliseo Maldanado, a 33-year-old Los Angeles resident.  Officers attempted to verbally calm Maldanado whose behavior was extremely confrontational and irrational.  Because of  Maldanado’s agitated state, officers requested a backup. 

After multiple attempts by officers to talk with the suspect, Maldanado began to physically attack them.  Having exhausted all less-than-lethal options, including the use of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Spray, Taser, and collapsible baton, officers were able to take Maldanado into custody by using a Team Take Down.  Maldanado was finally controlled and handcuffed.  The entire altercation lasted ten minutes.

Maldanado and three officers were injured during the altercation.  A rescue ambulance was summoned and Maldanado was transported to USCMC, where he failed to respond to medical treatment and died as a result of a possible heart attack.  The officers were treated for their injuries and released.

Force Investigation Division is handling the investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to call Force Investigation Division, at 213-485-6475. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).