PERSONNEL APPEALS BOARD OF THE CITY OF LA MESA UPHOLDS THE DECISION OF THE POLICE CHIEF TO TERMINATE THE EMPLOYMENT OF POLICE OFFICER MATTHEW DAGES REGARDING HIS INVOLVEMENT IN A POLICE CONTACT ON MAY 27, 2020, WITH MR. AMAURIE JOHNSON AT THE GROSSMONT TROLLEY STATION 

La Mesa, CA…After several months of complying with necessary legal protocols and procedures, including an external investigation by independent investigators, on August 7, 2020, now retired Police Chief Walt Vasquez terminated the employment of Police Officer Matthew Dages.  The termination stemmed from his actions in connection with a May 27, 2020 police contact with Mr. Amaurie Johnson at the Grossmont Trolley Station.  On August 14, 2020, Dages appealed the termination to the Personnel Appeals Board of the City of La Mesa (Board).   

The appeal hearing, which was closed to the public on the request of Dages pursuant to Government Code Section 54957, concluded on December 9, 2020.  The Board upheld the decision of the Police Chief to terminate the employment of Dages. The Board’s decision is final and no further appeal is available through the City (including an appeal to the City Council).  The disciplinary records will be released publicly following review of the records for any legally required redactions.