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Defense Unveils 3D Model to Challenge Body-Cam View in San Antonio Police Killing Trial

Jurors saw a reconstruction that places Melissa Perez within 5 to 8 feet of the officers at the moment the first shot was fired.

Overview

  • On Day 19 of the trial, a defense forensic analyst presented a 3D scene model built from body-camera footage and an on-site survey.
  • The expert testified that fisheye lenses on body-worn cameras can exaggerate distance, potentially making Perez appear farther away.
  • Lead detective Ronald Soto said he believed Perez was not that close based on video, then acknowledged he did not watch all footage and took no notes.
  • San Antonio’s police chief has said department policy was violated and that Perez was behind a closed glass door and not a threat.
  • Then‑Sgt. Alfred Flores and then‑Officer Eleazar Alejandro face murder charges, and then‑Officer Nathaniel Villalobos is charged with aggravated assault in SAPD’s first on‑duty shooting murder trial.