Fresno police officer arrested on domestic violence and other charges

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A Fresno police officer has been arrested and accused of domestic violence and other charges.

The officer accused is 30-year-old Devin Franco, who has been with Fresno Police since 2018.

In a news release, the department said it received a 911 call on Monday from a female victim requesting a welfare check.

When officers arrived, they determined their fellow officer had committed possible domestic violence crimes.

They passed the case to Domestic Violence Unit detectives, who investigated throughout the day.

Late Monday afternoon, the officer was arrested and booked into the Fresno County Jail on felony charges of domestic violence and false imprisonment, along with misdemeanor charges of child endangerment and making harassing phone calls.

The officer has been suspended and asked to surrender his firearms and all other police property. However, he will continue to be paid during his leave.

Chief Paco Balderamma sent out a statement, writing:

"The Fresno Police Department is committed to maintaining the trust and confidence of our community who we are proud to serve. Our transparency and professionalism are both integral parts of this commitment. When our personnel are accused of criminal acts or wrongdoings, we will always conduct a thorough and accurate investigation to ensure accountability."

Action News also reached out to the Fresno Police Officers Association. The organization said it can't comment on the case right now, citing personnel issues.

The Fresno Police Department did not name the officer suspected in this case. However, the Fresno County Sheriff's Office did provide his name and booking photo.

Legal Analyst David Mugridge said the charges could lead to prison time for Franco.

"They have to take a look at the facts and circumstances," said Mugridge. "Was there violence? Was there physical injury?

Mugridge explained that there are two possible outcomes that can happen.

"Not very likely, particularly on a first case, and even more particularly on a police officer, they're going to go right for the jugular, and they're going to impose a prison commitment," explained Mugridge. "But what is more likely is if the officer is more amenable to taking some kind of counseling program."

Mugridge adds depending on what the facts are, if could be difficult for Franco to return to work as an officer.

"If the facts show, for example, he used or even threatened to use a weapon, it's going to be a difficult scenario for that particular officer to get back," said Mugridge.

Nicole Linder with the Marjaree Mason Center said domestic violence affects everyone and anyone across all industries.

"I think we have to realize that this isn't a male vs female issue anymore," said Linder. "We have to look at all types of relationships."

Linder said it could be difficult for a victim to leave a hard relationship for a variety of reasons.

She said that barriers such as money, children, and even cultural or religious reasons can play a role.

Linder applauded the police department's transparency and quick response to the situation.

The Sheriff's Office said Franco spent three hours in the Fresno County Jail on Monday and was released after posting bond, adding that his bail was set at $40,000.

Franco is scheduled to make his first court appearance on February 21st.

If you are the victim of domestic abuse, or you know someone who is, there is help available 24/7. In Fresno County, call the Marjaree Mason Center at (559) 233-4357. In all other locations, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.

Stay with ABC30 for the latest details on this developing story.

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