that "cop" had a split second to make a decision in a very explosive situation.

it's easy for others to judge his actions.

cop is a slang term to me.
I assume you mean a officer of the law

I will bet you a $100.00 bill that he DID NOT intend to shoot that child.
innocent bystanders probably factored into his decision.

the media portrays L.A. "cops" as animals.

an armed suspect using a child as a shield......
what would people think if the "cop" has pulled back and the perp had
injured and/or killed others??? then people would probably be saying that he should have been taken down at any price.

these L.A. "cops" have to deal with scum of the earth everyday.
nobody ever says thanks.

btw I don't live on the West coast, so perhaps I am being ignorant....