THE alleged victim in a domestic violence case involving a police officer had refused to sign a court summons, Variety learned.
She, the responding police officer and detective were summoned to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on July 23.
The 32-year-old defendant, Officer Shane Mendiola of the Department of Public Safety-Boating Safety Unit, was charged with assault and battery, and disturbing the peace.
According to court information, Mendiola on July 14, 2021 “did unlawfully strike, beat or otherwise cause bodily harm and unreasonably annoy or disturb a household member.”
Police said Mendiola hit the victim with his hand and yelled and pulled her out of an establishment by her pants.
Attorney Anthony Aguon, who represents Mendiola, asked the court to vacate and waive the preliminary hearing. But Aguon also said that the arraignment set for July 26 at 9 a.m. should be maintained.
Superior Court Associate Judge Joseph N. Camacho granted the request and vacated the preliminary hearing set for Friday, July 23.
Judge Camacho earlier allowed Mendiola to be released to his brother as third-party custodian on a $10,000 unsecured bond.
The judge also placed Mendiola under house arrest and said the defendant must be with his third-party custodian when he leaves the house.
In addition, Mendiola was ordered not to have any contact with his girlfriend.
Mendiola was not arrested on the day of the alleged incident, but on the evening of July 15, 2021 an arrest warrant was issued against him.
Mendiola self-surrendered.
