On April 9, a news helicopter captured video of 10 San Bernardino, CA, sheriff's deputies viciously beating a man -- after subduing him.
Even after Francis Pusok's hands were tied behind his back and he stopped resisting, the 10 officers punched him 37 times, kicked him 17 times, and struck him with a baton four times.
Sherriff McMahon said, "The video surrounding this arrest is disturbing and I have ordered an internal investigation be conducted immediately." The deputies have been put on leave and the FBI is investigating them for violating Francis's civil rights.
Investigating the ten officers isn't enough. When that many deputies are involved in one incident, it may be indicative of lax policies or even a broken department culture.
Every single time rogue cops step out of line like this and abuse their power to hurt civilians, we must all raise our voices together. Things won't change unless the outcry is national and sustained.
Speak out for justice for Francis Pusok today, and tell the California Bureau of Investigation to investigate the San Bernardino's Sheriff's Office!
Please also sign the Care2 petition for police body cameras in your community!
Dear Attorney General Harris,
Please direct your office's Bureau of Investigation to investigate the structure and policies of the San Bernardino's Sheriff's Office. When ten officers join together to savagely beat a suspect - especially after that suspect has already been subdued and poses no threat - it is likely not just a problem with the invidivudal officers, but with the culture of the department they serve. It is up to you to help make sure no one in California is abused at the hands of authorities like this again.
