Mesa police officer charged with assault in 2019 shooting

PHOENIX – A Mesa police officer was charged Wednesday with aggravated assault in the shooting of an unarmed man.

Nathan Chisler has been recommended for termination, the department said in a press release.

The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office direct complaint said Chisler shot Randy Sewell after answering a call about drunk and disorderly customers at Ojos Locos sports bar Dec. 6.

Chisler is facing one count of aggravated assault. He was reassigned to an administrative role after the shooting and Monday was served with a notice of a pre-deprivation hearing.

He will have the opportunity to appeal, police said.

“I am committed to ensuring that we will hold individuals who commit crimes accountable, regardless of their profession or relationship with this office,” County Attorney Allister Adel said in a press release.

The Mesa Police Association said in a release after the announcement,”Typically, these cases are first reviewed by a grand jury before charges are filed.

“We are disappointed Ms. Adel chose to circumvent that process and we vehemently disagree with her decision. We respect due process – one that’s free from political influence – for all people.”

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