article
New San Jose police officer DeJon Packer died last month of “substance abuse”, the San Jose Police Department revealed on Saturday.
The 24-year-old Packer, a former defender at the San Jose State University football team, was found dead at his home in Milpitas on March 13.
The Santa Clara County Medical Examiner did not respond to KTVU inquiries as to what caused Packer’s death.
However, Police Chief Anthony Mata linked him to drugs in a statement.
“This behavior is not something we approve of and we will continue to assist the Milpitas police in their investigation,” the statement said.
In an attempt to prevent drug abuse, the SJPD said it has services for its employees who may need help to cope with the traumatic experiences they experience during their service.
“We need to keep in mind that we are not immune to problems that plague society, in this case substance abuse,” Mata said in a statement. “As human beings, we are not perfect and mistakes will be made. The health of the officer is of paramount importance and priority in our agency. “
The department also said it has a strict policy against drug use by cops.
“Any allegation of illicit drug use by a San Jose police officer is alarming,” Mata said in a statement. When an employee violates public trust, on or off duty, I will hold them accountable. “
Add Comment