The Chicago Police Oversight Agency recently released surveillance and body worn camera footage from a March 2021 incident, showing the moments an off-duty Chicago officer stood his ground against a home intruder.

On March 31st, 2021, at approximately 12:30 a.m., a male subject, later identified as 32-year-old Jose Mendoza, entered an apartment building located in the 3100 block of West Belle Plaine. Upon entering the apartment, Mendoza lingered around the lobby for several minutes before approaching the off-duty officers front door.

As Mendoza approached the front door, the off-duty officer, his wife, and 21-month-old child were in the living room watching TV. After only a few brief moments, the off-duty officer cracked the door and shouted for the man to leave. Mendoza was commanded several times to discontinue his efforts, however he continued attempting to gain entry into the home. In response, the off-duty officer discharged a round from his firearm, striking Mendoza in the face.

A 9-1-1 call was made briefly after the shooting. Responding EMT's provided medical aid to Mendoza, where he was stabilized and transported to an area hospital.

Mendoza has multiple arrest warrants and a pending DUI case in Rolling Meadows. As of October 2021, Mendoza has been held on a $1 million bond, for burglary, home invasion and criminal trespass.