crimeneutral

A Cop on Trial: Did He Freeze in Uvalde?

Corpus Christi, USAWednesday, January 21, 2026
Advertisement

Adrian Gonzales is the first person to face criminal charges for actions during the Robb Elementary shooting. The jury is now deciding if he failed in his duties.

Trial Wraps Up

  • Prosecutors' Argument: Gonzales had a chance to stop the shooter but didn't act. They claim he ignored training and endangered children.
  • Potential Sentence: If found guilty on all counts, he could face life imprisonment.

A Case of National Significance

  • First Criminal Charges: This is the first time someone has been criminally charged for their actions during the Uvalde shooting.
  • Tragic Loss: 19 children and 2 teachers lost their lives. Police took 77 minutes to neutralize the gunman.
  • Public Outrage: Many remain upset over police response during the attack.

Charges and Consequences

  • 29 Felony Counts: One for each child who died and for the 10 survivors in the classroom.
  • Possible Sentence: Each count could mean 2 years in prison.
  • Trial Location: Moved to Corpus Christi for a fair trial.

Witness Testimonies

  • Prosecution Witnesses: Claimed Gonzales could have stopped the shooter but didn't act quickly enough.
  • Teaching Aide Testimony: Said she urged Gonzales to stop the gunman before he entered the school.
  • Defense Argument: Gonzales followed training and tried to enter the school but was told to wait for backup.
  • Uncommon Charges: It's rare for officers to be criminally charged for their response to shootings.
  • Similar Case in Florida: A cop was acquitted in a similar situation.

Jury Deliberation

The jury must now decide if Gonzales is guilty. Was he frozen in fear, or was he just following orders?

Actions