“We’re still learning the full story, but today we mourn a life lost,” Crockett wrote on X. “This is a tragic ending that we wish had been avoided for all.”
DALLAS — The Dallas Police Department released edited footage from multiple body cameras of an incident last week that led to officers fatally shooting a man in the parking garage of a children’s hospital.
That man, Diamon-Mazairre Robinson, had worked as a member of U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s security team, the Dallas politician confirmed in a statement on Monday.
“As a former public defender, I’ve always believed people are more than the worst thing they’ve ever done,” Crockett wrote in a statement on X. “I believe in redemption. The man we knew showed up with respect, care, and commitment to protecting others. We’re still learning the full story, but today we mourn a life lost. This is a tragic ending that we wish had been avoided for all.”
Robinson was a convicted felon who, according to multiple sources, had been operating a private security company while convincing people he was a police officer.
According to Dallas police, the Irving Police Department issued a bulletin for a black GMC Yukon with a stolen U.S. government license plate in February, which police say later connected with Robinson.
Police say investigators learned Robinson had been using false information and wearing “police-style uniforms” to look like a federal agent, and used the alias “Mike King” and reportedly created fraudulent businesses to hire actual officers for off-duty jobs.
As a result, police issued multiple felony warrants for Robinson, as well as a parole violation warrant.
At about 9:13 p.m. on March 11, police say officers found Robinson inside a white Mercedes belonging to a friend of his. After more than an hour of trying to negotiate with Robinson, SWAT officers were called to the scene.
At about 11:03 p.m., police say Robinson started getting out of the vehicle. But they reportedly saw Robinson lower his right hand, grab a gun, and point it at officers. Camera footage of the incident shows Robinson holding a gun. SWAT officers fired a less-lethal chemical agent and a flashbang diversion before shooting him with their tactical rifles.
After he fell to the ground, police say they removed the gun from Robinson’s hand, and a medic immediately began providing aid. But Robinson was pronounced dead at 11:09 p.m.
The gun in Robinson’s hand at the time of the incident was reported stolen, police said. More guns were found in other vehicles associated with him, as well as his home.
According to sources, Robinson portrayed himself as a law enforcement officer and posted photographs of himself in what appeared to be a police uniform. Sources said he was able to convince some clients — and even some police officers — that he was a legitimate officer and that his security company was legitimate. Sources also said Robinson claimed to have high-profile clients, including banks, hotels and political figures.
The Dallas County District Attorney’s office is investigating the incident, and all involved officers are on administrative leave.