Defense Challenges Lead Detective's Investigation in Melissa Perez Shooting Trial

The trial of three former San Antonio Police officers—Eleazar Alejandro, Alfred Flores, and Nathaniel Villalobos—charged in the 2023 shooting death of Melissa Perez has focused heavily on the investigation led by Detective Ronald Soto. The defense attorneys have challenged Soto's investigation, particularly his review of body-camera footage, as he admitted not thoroughly reviewing all footage from the 15 officers at the scene, instead focusing on only five, including the defendants. They also criticized his decision to issue arrest warrants within 16 hours without fully considering the split-second decisions made by officers or Perez's mental health history, which included schizophrenia and substance abuse. Soto's investigation and documentation practices, including incomplete notes on body-camera videos, have been a central point of contention, with defense attorneys arguing these gaps undermine the prosecution's case. The judge barred the prosecution's expert witness and restricted references to a related federal case, adding to the trial's complexity. If convicted, the former officers could face life in prison, while the trial's conclusion remains uncertain as the defense continues to question evidence and witnesses.