Prosecutors charged seven California Highway Patrol officers and a nurse with involuntary manslaughter on Wednesday in reference to the 2020 demise of a person who screamed “I can’t breathe” whereas a number of officers restrained him as they tried to take a blood pattern.

Los Angeles County district legal professional George Gascon introduced the costs within the demise of Edward Bronstein, which the LA County coroner mentioned was brought on by “acute methamphetamine intoxication during restraint by law enforcement”.

“The officers had a legal duty to Mr Bronstein,” Mr Gascon mentioned throughout a information convention.

“He was in their custody. We believe that they failed their duty and their failure was criminally negligent, causing his death.”

In an announcement, CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee prolonged condolences to Mr Bronstein’s household and mentioned the company’s mission is to prioritise all Californians’ security.

“I am saddened that Mr Bronstein died while in our custody and care. Any death in custody is a tragedy that we take with upmost seriousness,” Duryee mentioned.

“I recognise this case will now move through the court system, and I respect the judicial process.”

Mr Bronstein, 38, was taken into custody by CHP officers March 31 2020, following a site visitors cease.

He died lower than two months earlier than George Floyd was killed by police in Minneapolis as he, too, repeatedly informed officers, “I can’t breathe.”

An almost 18-minute video displaying the officers’ remedy of Mr Bronstein was launched final yr following a decide’s order.

The six CHP officers and one sergeant charged in his demise face one depend every of involuntary manslaughter and one felony depend of assault underneath the color of authority. They every resist 4 years in jail.

The registered nurse is charged with involuntary manslaughter.

An arraignment has not but been scheduled.