San Antonio police officials announced a 10‑day suspension for Sergeant Daniel Contreras, a 32‑year veteran of the SAPD, after video captured him physically confronting an opposing coach and several parents at a youth basketball game.
Incident details
The altercation occurred just before 7 p.m. on Feb. 22 in the gymnasium of St. Matthew Catholic Church, located on the 10700 block of Wurzbach Road. The game was part of a Catholic Youth Organization league for girls under age 10. Both coaches received technical fouls, and a referee later told KSAT that Contreras was assessed a second technical after he told the opposing coach, “Yeah, I’ll have something for you later outside.”
Footage recorded by an eyewitness shows Contreras leaving the court, approaching the opposing coach, and asking, “You wanna talk s— with me?” He then placed the coach in a headlock. Several parents intervened, pushing the sergeant to the ground while children could be heard crying and screaming.
Contreras got up, challenged a parent with, “You wanna push me? Let’s go, man! Let’s go!” He proceeded to use profanity and exchange punches with the parent. Other parents shouted for police assistance. After the fight, another video shows Contreras confronting a woman, asking, “Where’s your p—- husband? Who the f— are you to get in the way then?” The confrontation ended when a man placed his hand on Contreras’ shoulder and led him away.
Department response
According to SAPD records obtained by KSAT Investigates, the sergeant was originally slated for a 30‑day suspension this summer, but the penalty was later reduced to ten days. The department cited violations of conduct and behavior rules, as well as Contreras’ failure to self‑report his involvement in the disturbance that required fellow officers to respond.
Police officers were called to the scene, but they left without taking anyone into custody because the complainant had left the property. Contreras was not criminally charged for the incident.
Context and community impact
The incident has sparked concern among parents and community members about off‑duty conduct of law‑enforcement personnel, especially in settings involving children. While the suspension reflects the department’s internal disciplinary process, critics argue that a longer penalty would better deter similar behavior and protect the safety of youth sports environments.
Local leaders and faith‑based groups have called for clearer guidelines on police officers’ conduct while off duty, emphasizing the importance of modeling respect and self‑control for the next generation.
What’s next?
Sergeant Contreras served his suspension in early August. The SAPD has not indicated whether additional training or counseling will be required before he returns to duty. Parents and volunteers at St. Matthew Catholic Church are reviewing safety protocols for future games to ensure a calm and secure atmosphere for young athletes.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
