Charges filed against Carlos Medina, man accused of killing LA Bishop

We're here today to announce the charging on the murder of auxiliary Bishop David O'Connell, who was found on February the 18th in the Catholic Archdiocese, Oum Hon, where he lived in Hacienda Heights. Carlos Medinas of Torrance, the husband of a woman who worked as a housekeeper for Bishop O'Connell, was charged with one kind of murder. We also found the facts that this case warranted the filing of a special allegation that he personally used a firearm during the commission of Outer Fence. Paramedics pronounce Bishop O'Connell dead at the scene. He was discovered suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. If convicted, Mr. Medina faces up to 35 years to life in prison.

Bishop O'Connell served as a priest and a bishop in the LA County for nearly half a century. He served multiple congregations where he helped and personally impacted the life of thousands of Angelenos. He was committed to those that are most vulnerable in our community. He worked with the immigrant community. He worked with communities that were impacted by gang violence. He selflessly gave his life to this community and to the work. His loss is one that I think will be felt deeply for years to come.

This is a brutal act of violence against a person who's dedicated a life to making our neighborhoods safer, healthier, and always serving with love and compassion. He never hesitated. He worked with community. He worked with police. He worked with everyone that was willing to work. As I mentioned before, this is an incredible loss not only for the church, but for our entire community. As Catholics around LA County and the nation start the holy season of Lent, let us reflect on Bishop O'Connell's life of service and dedication to those in the greatest need of care.

Charging Mr. Medina will never repair the tremendous harm that was caused by the Scholars Act, but it does take one step closer to accountability. We will continue to extend our sympathy to the family of Bishop O'Connell and to the entire community. A victim of Euro-services will work with anyone that needs help. And once again, I want to thank the LA County Sheriff Department for their work.

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