Judge Clears Police Officer in Shooting Death of UPS Driver

Strategic Insights -

A South Florida judge has cleared a police officer, Jose Mateo, of wrongdoing in the shooting death of a UPS driver, Frank Ordonez, who was being held hostage during a 2019 robbery. Judge Ernest Kollra ruled that Mateo was justified in using deadly force under Florida's "stand your ground" law, citing body-worn camera footage that showed Mateo's pursuit of the UPS truck. Ordonez, 27, was delivering packages in Miami-Dade County when he was abducted and forced to drive during a police chase that ended in a hail of gunfire, killing the two robbers and a passerby. Mateo's actions have sparked controversy, with three other officers still facing manslaughter charges in Ordonez's death.

Key Takeaways:

  • Judge Ernest Kollra ruled that Jose Mateo was justified in using deadly force under Florida's "stand your ground" law, citing body-worn camera footage.
  • The footage showed Mateo emptying the magazine of his firearm, re-loading, and pulling Ordonez from the vehicle.
  • The two robbers and a passerby were killed in the hail of gunfire during the police chase.
  • Mateo's partner was seen holding a long gun in the passenger seat, drawing a parallel to the level of force used.
  • The Broward State Attorney's Office is reviewing the judge's ruling.
  • Three other officers are still charged with manslaughter in Ordonez's death.
  • Mateo is currently suspended from his job.

Statistics:

  • 27: The age of UPS driver Frank Ordonez at the time of his death.
  • 2: The number of robbers involved in the jewelry store heist.
  • 1: The number of passerby killed in the hail of gunfire.
  • 2019: The year in which the robbery and subsequent shooting occurred on December 5.
  • 1: The total number of people (including Ordonez) killed in the incident.

Sources:

  • South Florida SunSentinel
  • WPLG (Miami television station)
  • The Associated Press