A Harris County Sheriff’s Office deputy has been indicted on a murder charge in connection with a fatal deputy-involved shooting that occurred in February 2025 in north Houston.
Deputy Aileen Jimenez Barboza, 36, was indicted by a grand jury on Thursday for the shooting death of 36-year-old Levincer Swanson, according to officials.
Incident Details
According to statements from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred on February 27, 2025, at a gas station located along the North Freeway near West Road.
Deputies were dispatched following reports of a man allegedly behaving erratically and damaging gas pumps. The individual was later identified as Levincer Swanson.
Officials reported the following sequence of events:
- Deputies arrived on scene and issued verbal commands for Swanson to comply.
- Swanson initially appeared to comply with instructions to lay down.
- As deputies attempted to place him in handcuffs, Swanson allegedly began to resist.
- Authorities state Swanson attempted to disarm a male deputy by grabbing for his taser.
- Deputy Barboza reportedly continued issuing commands during the struggle.
- According to the sheriff’s office, Barboza discharged her firearm twice when Swanson continued resisting.
Swanson was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
Criminal Charges
A Harris County grand jury indicted Deputy Barboza on a charge of murder in connection with the shooting.
Her bond has been set at $50,000, according to officials.
Internal Affairs Investigation
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that an Internal Affairs investigation was conducted following the incident.
According to the agency:
- The investigation found that Deputy Barboza violated multiple departmental policies.
- Based on those findings, a recommendation for termination was issued.
Deputy Barboza had been placed on administrative leave following the shooting and remained on leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Employment Status and Appeal Process
The sheriff’s office stated that Deputy Barboza, a 15-year veteran of the department, has been recommended for termination by a disciplinary committee.
Under the applicable civil service system, she retains the right to appeal the termination decision.
Current Status
- Deputy Barboza has been indicted on a murder charge.
- Bond has been set at $50,000.
- Termination has been recommended following an Internal Affairs investigation.
- She remains entitled to appeal her termination under civil service rules.
- No additional public details regarding court dates or further proceedings have been released.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the deputy being charged?
According to officials, the charge stems from the February 27, 2025, shooting of Levincer Swanson during a response to a disturbance call at a gas station.
What did investigators conclude internally?
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office reported that its Internal Affairs investigation found policy violations and recommended termination.
Is the deputy still employed?
A recommendation for termination has been issued; however, the deputy has the right to appeal under civil service protections.
What was the reported reason for the use of force?
Authorities stated the use of force occurred after Swanson allegedly resisted arrest and attempted to take a taser from another deputy.
Has a court date been set?
No court date or additional judicial scheduling information has been publicly released at this time.
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