The Clark County Police Fatality Public Fact-finding Review held on June 9, 2025, focused on the circumstances surrounding the police encounter with Felicia Rene Guzman, who was involved in a situation where a deadly weapon was present. Key discussions revolved around the actions of officers on the scene and the protocols for handling such incidents.
During the meeting, it was confirmed that the knife used earlier in the day had been secured by Officer Ebert, who placed it in a rubber glove. This raised questions about whether officers had reason to believe Guzman would pose a further threat with another weapon. The discussion highlighted the importance of police training and situational awareness, particularly in scenarios where suspects may have access to additional weapons.
Sergeant Salkoff, a senior officer present at the scene, was noted for her tactical positioning, which allowed her to maintain visibility of the front door while engaging with witnesses. This strategic approach was emphasized as a critical aspect of managing potential threats.
The conversation also touched on the use of non-lethal force, specifically in open field barricade situations. Officers explained that such scenarios require time and distance to effectively deploy less-than-lethal options, like beanbag rounds. The need for officers to return to their vehicles to retrieve these tools was underscored, as they are typically not carried during initial responses to high-risk calls.
Overall, the meeting highlighted the complexities of police response in potentially dangerous situations and the critical role of time and distance in ensuring officer and public safety. The findings from this review will contribute to ongoing discussions about police protocols and training in Clark County.