February 27, 2026: Former Downey Police Officer Charged With Reckless Driving for 2023 Collision

Mario Valles didn't put on his lights or sirens when he crashed into another car

DOWNEY, Calif. - 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.

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

Mario Valles (dob 6/29/95) was charged in case 26CJCF01248 with one felony count of reckless driving causing injury. He is scheduled to be arraigned on March 17 in Department 30 of the Foltz Criminal Justice Center.

The case was filed for warrant on Feb. 24.

On March 13, 2023, at about 1:45 a.m., Valles was responding to a call about a fight at a nearby bar. Valles is accused of not having 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.

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

The case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Lana Barnett of the Justice System Integrity Division and remains under investigation by the Whittier Police Department.

The charges filed in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.