Editor’s note: The above video shows KXAN News’ top morning headlines from Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024.
AUSTIN (KXAN) — A Williamson County deputy accused of manslaughter in connection with a 2019 in-custody death was charged with a misdemeanor assault one week before trial, according to new court filings.
In 2019, Javier Ambler died following a chase that began in Williamson County and ended in north Austin.
INDICTED: Former Williamson County deputies charged with manslaughter in death of Javier Ambler
Prosecutors claimed deputies James Johnson and Zachary Camden acted recklessly in restraining Ambler and using a stun gun, which occurred after authorities said Ambler said he could not breathe and had a health condition.
Both Johnson and Camden face a manslaughter charge, but a new filing showed the Williamson County District Attorney’s Office recently had a grand jury to sign off on the assault charge for Johnson.
Defense attorney Doug O’Connell said he took the new charge to the judge arguing there was too little notice for it and the manslaughter charge to be considered together at trial next week and the judge agreed.