06/06/2026
Death Investigation Following Deputy Response in Waterford
On June 4th, 2026, at about 7:30 p.m., deputies assigned to Waterford Police Services responded to a family disturbance in the 13000 block of Rivercrest Drive.
Upon arrival, deputies contacted Shane Harlan, 39, of Waterford. During the investigation, a family member signed a citizen's arrest complaint alleging that Harlan had caused approximately $800 in property damage. As deputies attempted to take Harlan into custody for vandalism, he resisted deputies' attempts to arrest him, resultng in a brief physical struggle.
Deputies were able to place Harlan in handcuffs; however, he continued to resist. A full-body restraint device (WRAP) was subsequently applied to safely control Harlan. He was then seated on the ground and remained under constant observation by deputies.
While under observation, deputies noticed Harlan become unresponsive and requested emergency medical personnel from Oak Valley Ambulance Service. Shortly thereafter, Harlan became unresponsive and experienced a medical emergency. Deputies immediately began providing medical aid, including CPR, as emergency medical personnel arrived. The restraint device was removed to allow medical personnel to continue life-saving efforts.
Despite those efforts, Harlan was pronounced deceased at the scene.
In accordance with Sheriff's Office protocol, detectives assigned to the Major Crimes Unit have assumed the investigation in collaboration with the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office. The circumstances surrounding Harlan's death remain under investigation. The official cause and manner of death will be determined following an autopsy conducted by the Stanislaus County Coroner's Office.
Additonal details will be released as they become available and as the investigation permits.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Jorge Perez at (209) 525-7114.
