Denver Judge Finds Police Officer Filed a False Affidavit for Arrest Warrant
Judge Bronfin’s order noted that Denver Officer Paul Baca stated in the sworn affidavit for arrest warrant that Aaron Puller, 22, was identified by two witnesses as having participated in the crimes. These identifications were the only evidence linking Puller to the crimes. Questioning of these two witnesses was videotaped.
The judge viewed relevant portions of each videotape and found that neither witness had in fact claimed that Puller was a participant. One witness denied even knowing Puller.
In explaining his reasons for dismissing the charges, Judge Bronfin concluded that the statements in the affidavit were false or at least made with a “reckless disregard for the truth.”
It is unknown whether the Denver District Attorney will appeal the dismissal of the charges. A more basic issue is whether or not officer Baca will be disciplined and/or charged with perjury. We shall wait and see.