Riverside Police Officers Sentenced After Vandalism Incident
In a notable case that has captured community attention, two Riverside police officers, Timothy Rolland Popplewell, 35, and Andrew Jason Price, 28, faced legal consequences for a vandalism incident involving a resident’s skateboard. On April 3, the pair appeared before the Riverside County Hall of Justice and agreed to a diversion program concerning a misdemeanor vandalism charge. As part of their sentence, they were ordered by Superior Court Commissioner Stephanie Field to pay a $100 fine, complete 48 hours of community service, and attend a "responsibility and character-building class." If they successfully adhere to the terms of this program, the charges against them may be dismissed in a follow-up hearing scheduled for October 3.
The incident in question took place on January 21 when police officers arrived at a home to assist code enforcement officers. Surveillance footage from a neighbor’s camera revealed a group of five police officers and a code enforcement officer entering the backyard. The video captures a seemingly jovial atmosphere as officers attempted to ride the skateboard, hopping on and off while joking with one another. However, the situation took a turn for the worse when one officer, after making a pointed remark, proceeded to smash the skateboard with his foot, rendering it unusable. This destructive act prompted the resident to file a formal complaint the following day.
The Riverside County District Attorney’s Office expressed discontent with the diversion program on behalf of the victim but did not recommend alternative forms of resolution. According to spokesperson John Hall, restitution has already been made to the victim for the damage caused by the officers. Vandalism is classified as a misdemeanor when the damage incurred is valued at less than $400, with penalties potentially including a year in jail and fines up to $1,000. Fortunately for the officers, their agreement to the diversion program allows them to avoid these harsher penalties.
As the internal investigation continues, Riverside Police Department officials have stated that disciplinary measures may be forthcoming. Officer Ryan Railsback, a spokesperson for the department, confirmed that both Popplewell and Price remain on duty. They are currently assigned to the Problem-Oriented Policing Team, which focuses on addressing quality-of-life issues and community nuisances. Chief Larry Gonzalez publicly condemned the officers’ conduct, remarking that such behavior does not align with the values of the Riverside Police Department. He emphasized the department’s commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism.
This incident not only raises significant concerns about police accountability but also highlights the necessity for law enforcement officers to embody the principles of responsibility and respect for community property. The actions of the officers involved not only damaged a resident’s personal property but also contributed to a rising discourse surrounding the need for stringent internal controls within police departments nationwide. As public scrutiny increases, departments across the country are being urged to adopt more robust training and standards for their officers, effectively reinforcing ethical behavior and accountability.
In conclusion, while the resolution of this case through a diversion program may seem lenient, it serves as a reminder of the importance of holding officers accountable for their actions. The Riverside Police Department is tasked with not only protecting the community but also upholding trust and integrity within its ranks. The incident involving the vandalized skateboard will be a moment of reflection for both the officers involved and the broader police force, as they strive to set an exemplary standard for community interactions and partnerships. As the investigation unfolds, community members will be closely monitoring the outcomes and any resulting changes within the Riverside Police Department.
