Man Charged in Officer Shooting Pleads Not Guilty

By Lookout Staff

March 1 -- A suspected Santa Monica gang member accused of shooting an undercover police officer in the wrist pleaded not guilty to attempted murder Monday.

German Michael Espinola, 22, is facing life in prison if convicted of several charges against him, including premeditated attempted murder, assault with a firearm, one count each of shooting at an unoccupied vehicle and unlawful firearm activity.

Santa Monica police said they believe Espinola is a Santa Monica gang member.

He is being held on $2.4 million bail. A preliminary hearing is set for March 27 at the Airport Security branch.

Espinola is accused of allegedly shooting at 25-year-old Officer Walter Ramirez and his partner on February 2 near 20th Street and Pico Boulevard, according to a statement issued by Santa Monica Police after the incident.

While his partner escaped injury, Ramirez was shot in the wrist.

According to police, the two undercover officers were patrolling when they saw two men acting suspiciously. When the men fled in a van the officers followed and Espinola allegedly opened fire, wounding Ramirez.

The suspects surrendered at a nearby apartment building.

Another man taken into custody with Espinola was not charged with any crime, according to the District Attorney's Office.

Wire reports contributed to this story.