Denver Police Shooting: $20K Bond Set for Suspect, 19

A Denver Co. judge set a bond of $20,000 for Sergio Casimiro-Mejia, 19, who was shot by a Denver police officer Sept. 9 during an alleged auto-theft. Judge Clarisse Gonzales set bond for $20,000. Casimiro-Mejia was free on parole from a previous car theft, the district attorney told the court. He also failed to appear in court twice while a juvenile offender, and displayed a handgun ,she said.

Casimiro-Mejia was shot in the jaw and shoulder in a police-involved shooting by a Denver officer responding to a 911 call around 9 p.m. for an auto theft in a semi-industrial area in the 4500 block of North Kingston St. Denver Police said he disobeyed orders to exit a stolen car and showed a handgun to the police officer.

Denver Police dept. Spokesman Matt Clark said Casimiro-Mejia received medical treatment for a gunshot wound to the jaw and shoulder. Clark said he will likely be charged with aggravated motor vehicle theft, felony menacing and possession of a weapon by a previous offender.

The officer, who has worked for the department since Oct., 2005, was put on administrative leave during the investigation, Clark said.

PHOTO: Courtesy Denver Co.Sheriff's Dept.