Ex-LAPD Officer’s Murder Case Dismissed in Brendon Glenn Death
A Los Angeles County Superior Court judge has dismissed murder charges against former LAPD officer Clifford Proctor regarding the 2015 fatal shooting of unarmed Brendon Glenn in Venice. Judge Ronald S. Coen ruled the indictment was invalid because exculpatory evidence wasn’t properly presented to the grand jury, according to the LA County District Attorney’s Office.
Why were the murder charges against Clifford Proctor dismissed?
Judge Ronald S. Coen granted a defense motion to dismiss after finding that former Special Prosecutor Lawrence Middleton failed to present “exculpatory evidence” to the grand jury. This procedural failure led the judge to conclude the matter should be dismissed.
The judge also reviewed video footage of the incident multiple times. He stated that the footage did not show Proctor acted with “malice of any sort.”
What led to the 2015 shooting of Brendon Glenn?
The incident occurred near the Venice Beach boardwalk following a dispute between Brendon Glenn, a homeless man, and a bouncer. Proctor shot and killed Glenn during the encounter.
Proctor claimed that Glenn was reaching for his partner’s gun. However, an LAPD investigation found that Proctor shot Glenn twice in the back, and the Los Angeles Police Commission ruled the shooting was unjustified.
How did the legal pursuit of Proctor evolve over a decade?
The case saw conflicting decisions across different administrations. In 2018, then-District Attorney Jackie Lacey declined to file charges due to “insufficient evidence,” even though then-LAPD Police Chief Charlie Beck recommended charges.
The pursuit resumed in 2024 when former District Attorney George Gascón decided to charge Proctor. This led Proctor to flee the United States for Trinidad, though he was eventually arrested at Los Angeles International Airport in October 2025.
What may happen next in this case?
The legal battle is likely to continue through the appellate process. District Attorney Nathan Hochman has already stated that his office will appeal the court’s ruling.
Hochman described the decision as “erroneous” and argued there was sufficient evidence to prove second-degree murder. A higher court could potentially reinstate the charges if the appeal is successful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Brendon Glenn?
Brendon Glenn was an unarmed homeless man who was shot and killed by Officer Clifford Proctor in Venice in 2015.
Why did Clifford Proctor flee the country?
Proctor fled to Trinidad after former District Attorney George Gascón decided to charge him with murder in 2024.
What was the basis for Judge Coen’s dismissal?
The judge cited the failure of Special Prosecutor Lawrence Middleton to present exculpatory evidence to the grand jury and a lack of evidence showing malice in video footage.
Do you believe the legal system provides adequate accountability for officers in cases involving conflicting evidence?