An independent prosecutor has announced his findings in the fatal shooting of Eric Logan by South Bend Police Sgt. Ryan O’Neill.

The results of the investigation by Ripley County Prosecutor Ric Hertel were presented in a 25-page document. His findings suggested Sgt. O’Neill’s use of deadly force was justified in the shooting, and that prosecution of the officer for that shooting is not possible.

O’Neill resigned from the department soon after the shooting.

O’Neill was arrested Friday morning before the press conference on official misconduct charges, ghost employment, and public indecency. He’s accused of soliciting a prostitute and lying about it.

In regard to the shooting of Eric Logan, O’Neill’s attorney issued the following statement:

We appreciate the careful analysis and review of this matter and the Prosecutor’s conclusion that Ryan O’Neill acted legally and reasonably based upon the totality of the circumstances.

We’ve always believed the evidence proves that Ryan O’Neill was justified in defending himself on the date in question and did not engage in any improper conduct related to this encounter.

There are of course no winners when an officer is required to use deadly force in tense, uncertain, and rapidly evolving situations.

We look forward to putting this entire matter behind Ryan and his family and hope this will start a process of healing for the entire South Bend community.

John F. Kautzman
Attorney for Ryan O’Neill