A man accused of fatally shooting a Hollywood police officer in 2021 has changed his plea to guilty Monday morning ahead of jury selection for his trial, officials confirmed.

According to the Broward County State Attorney's Office, in a non-negotiated plea, 22-year-old Jason Banegas changed his plea from not guilty to guilty in the shooting death of 28-year-old Officer Yandy Chirino.

Jury selection will now go forward as planned for the death penalty phase in the case, officials said.

"He pled guilty for two primary reasons. Number one, he knows that this jury would definitely convict him. And secondly, he thinks that there's at least some benefit to him by pleading guilty, and perhaps help him avoid the death penalty," Attorney Mark Eiglarsh said. 

Eiglarsh is not involved in the case. But he said Banegas likely changed his plea to try to save himself from a potential death sentence.

"The defense will argue, you see, folks, he didn't put you through a protracted, long, gory trial. He pled guilty; he accepted responsibility. That's a plus. That is a reason you should consider sparing his life," Eiglarsh said. 

The penalty phase is expected to get underway on Nov. 17. It could be sooner if a jury is seated soon.  

Hollywood police chief vows justice  

Hollywood Police Chief Jeffrey Devlin said it's been a "long and painful four years" for Chirino's family, friends, department and community.

In a recorded statement, Devlin vowed, despite the change of plea, that Banegas will face stiff consequences. 

"Let me be clear, anyone who hurts or kills a Hollywood police officer or any police officer will have the entire weight of our justice system coming down and expect the highest penalties under the law," he said. 

What happened to Officer Chirino?

According to the Hollywood Police Department on Oct. 17, 2021, officers responded to a call about a "suspicious incident" in the 4000 block of North Hill Drive. The report said neighbors had initially called the department after seeing someone trying to break into vehicles in the area.

Chirino, who responded to the scene, made contact with the suspect, who was later identified as Banegas. At one point, the two got into a scuffle and Banegas, who was armed with a gun, allegedly shot Chirino in the face, police said.  

Chirino was transported to the hospital, where he died from his injuries.

Banegas claimed he was trying to kill himself

According to the arrest affidavit, Banegas, who was 18 at the time of the incident, was out of jail and on probation for burglary and drug charges when the shooting happened. He reportedly told police he felt "disrespected" by Officer Chirino and panicked, adding that he intended to kill himself and not Chirino when the gun went off as the two fought.

Banegas was charged with felony murder, armed burglary, resisting arrest with violence, grand theft firearm and carrying a concealed firearm.

In November 2021, he submitted a written plea of not guilty.