The sentencing portion of the deadly conduct case involving Austin Police Officer Christopher Taylor is scheduled to begin on December 16th. Taylor, who was found guilty of deadly conduct in the 2019 shooting of Mauris DeSilva, opted to have his punishment decided by a judge rather than a jury. The punishment for deadly conduct in this case ranges from 2 to 10 years in prison along with a fine of up to $10,000, although probation is a possibility for Taylor due to his lack of prior convictions.
During the trial, Taylor’s defense team argued that he acted in self-defense, claiming that DeSilva posed a threat to Taylor, other officers, and civilians. The jurors deliberated for four days before reaching a guilty verdict. The prosecution pushed for an earlier sentencing date than December 16th, but logistical issues prevented an earlier scheduling.
The incident in question took place on July 31, 2019, when multiple 911 calls were made reporting DeSilva, 46, walking around his downtown condo complex with a knife to his throat. Witnesses, including condo employees, expressed concerns for the safety of both DeSilva and others in the building. Police officers, following their training to address threats promptly, confronted DeSilva on the fifth floor of the building, where the shooting occurred.
In addition to Taylor, another officer named Karl Krycia was involved in the shooting of DeSilva. Both officers were initially indicted on murder charges in 2021, but Taylor’s charges were dropped prior to the trial. Krycia still faces a murder charge, and his hearing is set for later this month.
The District Attorney’s Office has not provided further details on Krycia’s case. The body camera footage of the confrontation and shooting involving DeSilva is available for viewing to understand the events that led to the deadly conduct charges against the officers. The upcoming sentencing hearing for Taylor will determine the consequences he will face for his role in the tragic incident.