“Fatal Shooting of Garren Patty in Covington: Officer Faces No Charges”

An officer involved in a fatal shooting in Covington, Kentucky will not face any charges, according to Kenton County Commonwealth Attorney Rob Sanders. The incident occurred on July 9 when officers responded to a report of a suspicious person damaging a car and making threats in the area of East 20th Street and Glenway Avenue. Officer Ethan Livingood was the first officer on the scene and encountered the man, later identified as Garren Patty.

Body-worn camera footage shows Livingood repeatedly commanding Patty to sit down, but Patty instead moves towards the officer. A struggle ensues, during which Livingood deploys his stun gun twice, but it has no effect on Patty. Livingood is then knocked to the ground and hit multiple times. Patty attempts to steal Livingood’s sidearm, and during the struggle, Livingood fires a shot before his gun jams. Patty continues to punch Livingood until the officer clears the jam and fires seven more shots, ultimately fracturing Patty’s pelvis.

Officers arrive at the scene and provide aid to both Livingood and Patty. Patty is taken to UC Medical Center, where he succumbs to his wounds. Livingood suffers non-life-threatening injuries. After an independent investigation led by the Kentucky State Police (KSP), it is determined that Livingood’s use of lethal force was lawful. The evidence shows no probable cause to believe Livingood violated any laws.

Patty’s history includes being adopted at the age of seven and entering the juvenile system at 13. He had recently been released from prison after serving 10 years for burglary and was arrested again in February on an assault charge. Witnesses to the incident express confusion over the events leading up to the shooting.

The decision not to charge Officer Livingood has been met with mixed reactions. While some argue that the use of deadly force was justified given the circumstances, others question the necessity and proportionality of the officer’s actions. As the case unfolds, it will be important to closely examine the evidence and ensure transparency in the investigation process..