The first Elk Grove Police officer was killed in the line of duty over three years ago, but no trial date yet for defendant

On January 21, 2022, the first Elk Grove Police officer was killed in the line of duty. A suspected drunk driver killed motorcycle patrol officer Tyler Lenehan.

Officer Lenehan was operating his motorcycle on northbound Highway 99 in the early morning hours when the suspected impaired driver, Jermain Jeryan Walton, struck his vehicle in a head-on collision. Walton, who reportedly fled the scene on foot after the crash, was driving in the wrong direction and had a blood alcohol content of .15, almost twice the legal limit.

After being apprehended, Walton was arrested and remains in custody at the Sacramento County Jail. Walton was on probation from a previous DUI in 2017.

While California Law provides for a speedy trial for criminal defendants, the timeline for cases can range from several months to several years. In the case of Walton, the process has been extended over three and a half years.

An online review of the proceedings suggests (see document below) that there were 10 trial readiness conferences, suggesting a trial date could be set. However, setting a trial date can be delayed if the defendant waives their right to a speedy trial.  

The last trial readiness conference was on September 26, 2024. Since then, there have been hearings classified as "further proceedings" and "motion for discovery."

The next hearing is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on September 5, in Department 11 of the Sacramento Superior Court. The hearing is classified as "further proceedings.

story continued below

When contacted to comment on the extended delay of the trial, the Elk Grove Police Department issued a statement from Chief Bobby Davis.

"The District Attorney's Office has done an outstanding job keeping us informed throughout this process. Members of our organization have been present at every hearing, and once a trial date is set, we will be there as well, continuing to stay alongside the Lenehan family, our Elk Grove PD family, and the District Attorney's Office in support.

While the court process in California can take time when it comes to serious crimes, we have complete faith in the dedication and professionalism of the District Attorney's Office, and we remain confident that justice will ultimately be served."

An inquiry to the Sacramento District Attorney's public information office seeking comment on the status of the case, was answered with the following statement. 

"The defendant was arraigned on 1/25/22 on the attached charges.  He was held to answer on those charges on 9/22/22. A trial date has not been set. The next hearing date is on 9/5/25, at 9 a.m. in Dept. 11 for further proceedings."