Suspect who allegedly ran over law enforcement recruits in LA County makes court appearance

WHITTIER, Calif. (KABC) — The man accused of ramming his car into a group of law enforcement recruits in Whittier appeared in court Monday.

The recruits were on a training run in November 2022 when Nicholas Gutierrez, 23, allegedly plowed into them, according to prosecutors.

The recruits suffered injuries ranging from minor to critical. One recruit, 27-year-old Alejandro Martinez, died from his injuries eight months after the crash and 24 others were hurt.

Gutierrez was initially arrested but was released with sheriff’s officials saying the complex case needed more extensive investigation.

Gutierrez pleaded not guilty to charges of vehicular manslaughter and reckless driving.

His pre-trial hearing has been continued until March 25.

If convicted as charged, Gutierrez will face a maximum sentence of 12 years in prison, according to prosecutors.

About the Author

Yosi Yahoudai is a founder and the managing partner of J&Y. His practice is comprised primarily of cases involving automobile and motorcycle accidents, but he also represents people in premises liability lawsuits, including suits alleging dangerous conditions of public property, third-party criminal conduct, and intentional torts. He also has expertise in cases involving product defects, dog bites, elder abuse, and sexual assault. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California and is admitted to practice in all California State Courts, and the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. If you have any questions about this article, you can contact Yosi by clicking here.