February 13, 2012 - Houston police are investigating an incident in which a Houston police officer discharged his duty weapon and wounded a suspect at 15707 Eastex Freeway about 12:30 a.m. today (Feb. 13).

The suspect, Jan Michael Vincent (b/m, DOB: 3-31-80) is charged with possession of a controlled substance in the 184th State District Court. Vincent suffered non life-threatening wounds and was transported to Ben Taub General Hospital.

A January 2013 photo of suspect Vincent is attached to this news release.

Officer D. Morelli, who discharged his duty weapon, was not injured in the incident. Officer Morelli, sworn in as an officer in November 2006, is assigned to the Gang Division.

HPD Homicide Division Officers C. Cardenas and K. McDonald reported:

HPD patrol officers were conducting an investigation at the above address, which is a known area for narcotics activity. Officers saw suspect Vincent, approached and gave him verbal commands to identify himself. Vincent ignored the officers' commands, quickly got into his vehicle and began to rummage in the center console and the back seat. Officers gave repeated verbal commands to Vincent to exit the vehicle, which he ignored and continued to rummage through the vehicle. Officers then attempted unsuccessfully to physically pull Vincent from the vehicle, however he continued to ignore commands, became combative and continued to rummage through the vehicle. Believing he was searching for a weapon and fearing for his and his partner's safety, Officer Morelli discharged his duty weapon at Vincent, wounding him. Vincent was then taken into custody and transported to the hospital.

As is customary in HPD officer-involved shooting incidents in the city limits, this case is being investigated by the HPD Homicide and Internal Affairs Divisions, as well as the Harris County District Attorney's Office.

VHS/KJS 2-13-13
Inc. #018168313