Officer, father-to-be killed by released convicted felon — Calif. DA says Newsom has ‘blood on his hands’ for ‘warped’ criminal justice system

 A California police officer and father-to-be was shot and killed this week by a convicted felon who was given early release from prison. Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp blamed Governor Gavin Newsom (D) for creating a “warped” criminal justice system.

On Tuesday, 24-year-old Officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. was patrolling a Selma, California, neighborhood when a homeowner flagged him down for help. According to the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, the resident explained to the officer that a suspicious man was on her property.

When Carrasco attempted to approach the man, the suspect fired and struck the officer. Carrasco was transported to a local hospital, where he underwent surgery and later passed away.

Carrasco, who joined the force in 2021, is survived by his parents, brother, sisters, and girlfriend, who is expecting their child, the sheriff’s office reported.

Nathaniel Dixon, 23, was arrested in connection with Carrasco’s death. Dixon, who has previous charges for illegal firearms possession and robbery, was on probation at the time of the murder. He now faces multiple charges, including murder, a felon in possession of a gun, and probation violation.

Dixon was arrested for robbery in October 2019 and released in July 2020 with a probation agreement. One month later, Dixon was arrested on weapon and drug charges. According to the sheriff’s office, Dixon was released from jail because of the state’s cashless bail policy.

In August 2020, Dixon was arrested again for violating his probation. He was sentenced to five years in jail in March. However, he was given credit for time served and released from prison less than six months later.

Smittcamp accused Newsom of having “blood on his hands” for the murder.

“The governor has blood on his hands every time that one of these people who has benefited from these unearned time credits,” said Smittcamp. “Because the ramifications of these policies are death and violence and continued victimization of innocent people.”

Newsom fired back at Smittcamp and stated, “She should blame herself. I’ve been listening to this for years from her. She has the prosecutorial discretion. Ask her what she did in terms of prosecuting that case. I’m sick and tired of being lectured by her on public safety.”

Smittcamp responded to Newsom’s statement by stating that he “continues to demonstrate his ignorance and lack of understanding of how the criminal justice system works. His arrogant and defensive response is proof positive that he is attempting to deflect responsibility for his failed policies.”