Expert Review of Officer-Involved Shooting in Anchorage Released
An expert review of the officer-involved shooting that led to the death of 16-year-old Easter Leafa in Anchorage, Alaska, was made public on Thursday. The shooting occurred in August when Leafa, holding a knife, was confronted by police in a northeast Anchorage apartment where her family lived.
The review, conducted by outside consultant Christopher Darcy, was commissioned by Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance. It examined the circumstances surrounding the incident and included recommendations aimed at improving police practices.
The state investigation found that Anchorage police officer Alexander Roman was “legally justified” in using lethal force against Leafa. The decision to clear Roman followed an extensive review of the incident, which involved the officer’s body-worn camera footage. The footage, released by the Anchorage Police Department shortly after the investigation concluded, showed the events leading up to the shooting on the night of August 13, 2024.
In addition to the legal findings, Darcy’s review included 11 recommendations for the Anchorage Police Department to consider. These suggestions cover areas such as information gathering, leadership and supervision, command and control, de-escalation, and responses to resistance. The review also touched on the development of force options, contact and cover strategies, cultural competence, post-incident procedures, and concerns regarding police equipment.
However, due to “legal constraints,” Municipal Attorney Eva Gardner stated that many parts of the report could not be made public. Gardner did not elaborate on the specific details of the un-released sections.
This review and the subsequent recommendations aim to ensure that the department improves its practices, particularly in situations that involve the use of force. The community continues to seek answers regarding the tragic loss of Leafa, and the ongoing review process is seen as an important step toward accountability and reform.
