Erik Cantu Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison After Repeated Arrests

Cantu's criminal history includes assaults, evading police, and a controversial police shooting that left him hospitalized.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 6:48pm

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Erik Cantu, a 21-year-old San Antonio resident, was sentenced to two years in prison on April 1, 2026, for violating the conditions of his parole. Cantu's criminal history includes several arrests since being shot by a San Antonio police officer in 2022, including charges of burglary, assault, and evading arrest.

Why it matters

Cantu's case highlights ongoing concerns about repeat offenders, bail reform, and the long-term impacts of police use of force incidents. His story also raises questions about the challenges of reintegrating into society after a traumatic event like a police shooting.

The details

Cantu was arrested in December 2025 and charged with burglary of a habitation after being accused of breaking into his ex-girlfriend's apartment and stealing her iPad. At the time, he was on probation for two felony evading arrest charges. Weeks before the burglary arrest, Cantu was given a second chance by a judge after being accused of assaulting a woman at a house party in 2024. The judge allowed Cantu to continue his probation, warning that another violation could cost him up to 10 years in prison.

  • Cantu was arrested on Dec. 5, 2025 and charged with burglary of a habitation.
  • On Nov. 18, 2025, a judge allowed Cantu to continue his probation after he was accused of assaulting a woman in September 2024.
  • Cantu was shot by a San Antonio police officer on Oct. 2, 2022 and spent weeks hospitalized.

The players

Erik Cantu

A 21-year-old San Antonio resident with a history of arrests, including charges of burglary, assault, and evading police.

James Brennand

The former San Antonio police officer who shot Cantu in 2022, leading to a controversial incident that left Cantu hospitalized.

Stephanie Boyd

The state District Judge who gave Cantu a second chance on his probation in November 2025, warning that another violation could lead to 10 years in prison.

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What they’re saying

“Cantu went to the apartment to pick up his 1-year-old daughter because his ex-girlfriend was not picking up the phone.”

— Charles Bunk, Cantu's attorney

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Erik Cantu out on bail pending his appeal.

The takeaway

Cantu's case highlights the challenges of reintegrating into society after a traumatic event like a police shooting, as well as ongoing concerns about repeat offenders, bail reform, and the long-term impacts of use of force incidents.