Moving Community Event Remembers the Life of Ernest Duenez Jr. and Calls for Justice

On Sunday, August 14th, 75-100 people turned out to celebrate the life of Ernest Duenez Jr., who was slain by a Manteca police officer on June 8th, 2011, Ernest's birthday. The event took place in Lathrop, at a local community center. According to flyers distributed by Justice for Ernest:

Our family is requesting to see video evidence the police have that may show the incident in which an unarmed Ernest was shot multiple times while trying to exit the back seat of a vehicle where his leg was caught in the seat belt.  Witnesses reported Ernest had his hands up while exiting and was shot in the chest and head. 

Speaking at the event were representatives from Justice for Ernest and other community organizations that fight police brutality. Coming from Stockton, members of James Rivera Jr.'s family spoke, linking the two struggles together and pledging to support the fight of Ernest's family. Aside from speakers, there was also great food and games for children. A Lathrop police officer circled the parking lot and made participants take down a bounce house.