A former Colorado deputy faces three years in prison for fatally shooting a mentally distressed young man who had called 911 for aid, igniting a national debate on law enforcement accountability.
At a Glance
Andrew Buen, former deputy, sentenced for the 2022 death of Christian Glass.
Buen was convicted of criminally negligent homicide after escalating the crisis.
The incident sparked nationwide calls for reform in mental health crisis handling.
Glass’s family settled for $19 million, including officer crisis training reforms.
A Judgment That Echoes Beyond One Incident
Andrew Buen, a former Colorado sheriff’s deputy, has been handed a three-year prison term for his actions during a 2022 crisis call involving Christian Glass, a 22-year-old experiencing a mental health emergency. Buen’s conviction on counts of criminally negligent homicide casts a blinding spotlight on critical deficiencies within law enforcement’s response to mental health crises. Long overdue, such accountability represents a critical step in reevaluating police power dynamics and the growing necessity for effective reform.
Glass, stranded and frightened, called 911 for help when his SUV became stuck near Silver Plume, Colorado. The chaotic escalation of events that night included failed negotiations, use of bean bag rounds and a Taser. After Glass tossed a knife out his vehicle window, Buen tragically fired upon him, sealing his fate and setting in motion deep repercussions. This incident has consumed national attention, demanding change in how authorities manage mental health emergencies.
The Legal System’s Response and Uncertain Path Forward
Buen’s conviction was not instantaneous. A second trial was necessary as a previous jury could not reach a consensus on charges of murder or misconduct, reflecting the historic leniencies often extended toward officers during emergencies. While Buen expressed remorse, claiming, “There are a million things I should have done better that night,” the consequences of his choices reaffirm the pressing need for drastic shifts in crisis management protocols.
“There are a million things I should have done better that night” – Andrew Buen
Beyond criminal proceedings, Glass’s family struck a $19 million settlement, championing the inclusion of comprehensive crisis intervention training for officers. This tragic case underscores the vitality of reforms already long-deemed indispensable for the safety and dignity of society’s most vulnerable. Importantly, it acts as a clarion call for a compassionate approach to those seeking aid in crisis.
Training, Reform, and the Road Ahead
Judge Catherine Cheroutes noted, “I think this was about power. It wasn’t a mistake,” highlighting the often unchecked authoritative grip law enforcement can wield. Her remarks echo a wider sentiment demanding vigilance against endemic systemic failures and urging communities and lawmakers to pursue justice alongside meaningful action. We must ultimately ensure that justice prioritizes humanity over authority.
“I think this was about power. It wasn’t a mistake. It was about, ‘you need to listen to me because I’m in charge,’” – Judge Catherine Cheroutes
Profiles of courage emerge from such narratives, with Christian Glass’s family emerging not only as voices of grief but as advocates for systemic change. Their response prefigures a potential wave of accountability, shaking the old guard of law enforcement. As American citizens closely watch, we should demand, rather than hope, that those trusted to protect and serve do so with the full compassion and integrity the role demands.
