Report: Calif. Police Didn't Intend To Deceive Public In Homeless Man's Death

The Fullerton (Calif.) Police Department didn't deliberately release false information of an old booking photo of a homeless, mentally ill man who died after he was beaten by officers last year, according to an independent monitor.

Following the July 5 arrest, police released a two-year-old booking photo showing a disheveled Kelly Thomas and incorrectly told the media that he had been so violent that two officers suffered broken bones in the struggle.

Attorney Michael Gennaco, hired by the city to produce the report, said he has looked at hundreds of old booking photos and has "yet to find one booking photo that put anyone in a flattering light," reports the Los Angeles Times.

Fullerton officers Manuel Ramos and Jay Cicinelli face felony charges in the beating, while four other officers involved are still on administrative leave. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for March 28.

The legal bills of the officers will be paid by the Peace Officers Research Association of California's insurance system, reports Voice of OC.