DA clears officer who fatally shoots parolee in Sparks

RENO -- A police officer's fatal shooting of a California parolee outside a Sparks motel in November was justified, prosecutors ruled Monday.

Washoe County District Attorney Richard Gammick praised Reno Officer Mac Venzon's handling of the confrontation with Steve Jarosz at the Inn Cal Motel.

"(He) conducted himself in an exemplary, professional manner," Gammick said. "Although the taking of human life is always a serious matter, there are times when it cannot be helped."

Jarosz was being sought as a parole violator by California authorities for additional crimes when the shooting occurred Nov. 22.

Reno police staked out his motel room after they learned about his whereabouts. After Jarosz left the room and pointed a handgun at Venzon, the officer fired once, striking Jarosz in the head, Gammick said.

Venzon, a five-year veteran of the force, escaped injury.

Jarosz, a convicted felon with an extensive criminal history, told friends he would not be taken alive or go back to prison if caught by police, Gammick said.

Jarosz was suspected of thefts and burglaries in the Bishop, Calif., area as well as a pickup theft in Reno.