Days after a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy agreed to plead guilty to assaulting a transgender man for distracting him, at least eight of his colleagues were relieved of duty amid an investigation into an alleged cover-up. reported the Los Angeles Times.
Former Corona deputy Joseph Benza III was about to go on a domestic violence call, but when he saw the gesture, he abandoned the phone and instead, according to the Times, was now 23-year-old teacher Emmett Bullock. 11 parking spots at 7-Whittier in pursuit of the identified victim.
Surveillance video shows Benza throwing Brock to the ground without provocation.
As Brock continues to struggle and scream for help, Benza is seen on top of him, holding him down and punching him in the head. The altercation lasted about three minutes, after which the teacher was handcuffed and placed in the co-teacher’s cruiser.
Los Angeles County deputy admits to assaulting trans man and causing concussion after being disrespectful
“In his plea agreement, Benza admitted to lying to the FBI about the incident and alleged that numerous other deputies and sergeants helped obstruct the investigation and cover up the wrongdoing,” the Times said. Reported.
Eight others have now been relieved of their duties, including several sergeants, The Times has learned.
The FBI investigation is ongoing.
Giving the middle finger is considered free speech and is protected by the First Amendment.
