The Lake County Prosecutor has determined the fatal shooting of a man by a Willoughby officer in October was justified.
In a letter, dated March 30, Lake County Prosecutor Charles E. Coulson, said the officer was justified because Frank Sandor's words, actions and existing warrants "established more than sufficient grounds for the police officer involved to have used deadly force."
The letter was signed, and was addressed to Willoughby Police Chief Jack Beckwith. A news release announcing the ruling was sent out
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Sandor, 38, had several felony warrants out of the Lake County Sheriff's Office for dangerous drugs and escape. He also had several misdemeanor warrants out of the Rocky River Police Department.
What happened?
At the time of the incident, police were called about a man at Lowe's about 12:54 p.m. When officers arrived, Sandor was sitting in his car.
Two officers approached Sandor in the Lowe's parking lot and asked for identification. He gave incorrect information, police have said.
When asked to exit the car, authorities said Sandor threw the vehicle in reverse and struck an officer as well as a police motorcycle. The car dragged the motorcycle underneath the vehicle.
Officers on the scene immediately fired shots. Sandor was shot in his head and upper body, according to the Lake County Coroner's Office. His death was ruled a homicide at the time.
Sandor sped away from the scene and hit two other vehicles before coming to a stop. He was taken to Lake West Medical Center where he died from his injuries.
