Dekalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston announced Wednesday that she has recused herself and her office from the investigation and any potential prosecution related to the officer-involved shooting at the site of the Atlanta Police Training Center.

“We have formally notified the Prosecuting Attorney’s Council of Georgia of our voluntary recusal in this matter and have requested the appointment of an independent prosecution agency,” Boston said.

Authorities have alleged that Manuel Teran, 26, fired first at State Troopers who were clearing the woods around the planned site of the training center on Jan. 18. One trooper was critically wounded, and other officers shot and killed Teran.

“I take the review and charging determination associated with an officer-involved shooting very seriously,” Boston said.

Activists have called for an independent investigation into the incident; however, Boston’s decision does not do this. She said the decision removes the appearance of impropriety because of their involvement in a multi-jurisdictional task force.

“[The decision] is consistent with the mission of my office and our efforts to instill community trust and confidence in our criminal justice system,” Boston said.

©2023 Cox Media Group