Monterey police officer cleared in deadly shooting at Portola Plaza

The Monterey County District Attorney’s Office will not file charges against the Monterey police officer involved in the deadly shooting of a man at Portola Plaza in October of 2015.

On October 6, the Portola Hotel and Spa security manager called 911 to report a man, Donald Miller II, with a gun in his waistband.

Monterey Police Officer Zachery Reed was the first officer to respond.

According to the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office, Miller II turned toward Reed, pulled out the gun, and raised it toward the officer with his finger inside the trigger guard. This happened after Miller brandished the gun at innocent people. The gun turned out to be a replica.

Reed described, “sheer terror and feeling helpless.” The D.A.’s office also said other people were nearby and potentially in danger.

Reed repeatedly ordered Miller II to drop the gun, eventually firing his weapon. Reed attempted lifesaving measures and requested medical help. Miller II died on scene.

The D.A.’s Office said under Califonia law, “The officer was under no obligation to retreat. To the contrary, he was permitted to stand his ground. He had a duty to protect himself and the general public.”