Ex-Downey police officer charged with reckless driving for 2023 collision

DOWNEY — A former Downey police officer has been charged with reckless driving for an on-duty crash when he ran a red light at more than 80 mph and struck another vehicle at an intersection, officials announced Friday.

Mario Valles, 30, was charged with one felony count of reckless driving causing injury, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

He is scheduled to be arraigned March 17 in the Foltz Criminal Justice Center in downtown Los Angeles.

On March 13, 2023, about 1:45 a.m., Valles was responding to a call about a fight at a nearby bar. Prosecutors allege he did not have his emergency lights or sirens on when he ran a red light and collided with a vehicle at the intersection of Lakewood Boulevard and Columbia Way.

Nathan Hernandez, now 28, of Bellflower, suffered severe injuries that required multiple surgeries, authorities said.

If convicted, Valles faces up to three years in state prison.

"Police officers are not exempt from the same laws that all motorists must obey when driving on our highways and streets," District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said in a statement.

"Failing to turn on emergency lights or sirens when responding to a call can constitute careless and risky behavior depending on the circumstances. Accountability applies to everyone, especially those who wear a badge and are sworn to protect the public."