CHICO, Calif. - A federal judge has ruled that officers' actions were justified in the 2017 shooting of Desmond Phillips in Chico.

RELATED: New lawsuit filed against city of Chico by family of Desmond Phillips

Chico Police Chief Mike O'Brien announced the judge's decision in a news release on July 31.

The judge confirmed the Chico Police Department’s position that the conduct of the officers involved in this incident was justifiable and lawful.

In dismissing the lawsuit, the court held that based upon the circumstances facing the involved Chico officers, the use of force was reasonable and did not constitute negligence in the performance of their duties that evening.

“Although a tragic incident, the Chico Police Department concurs with this important ruling”, said Chico Police

Chief Michael O’Brien.