Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy Joseph Benza III has agreed to plead guilty to violating the civil rights of California teacher Emmett Brock, who was assaulted after flipping off the deputy. Benza abandoned a call to pursue Brock, eventually body-slamming and punching him, causing injuries. Benza admitted to falsifying a report and concocting a phony account of the incident.
Brock lost his job as a teacher after the assault and experienced anxiety and trauma as a result. He filed a separate civil complaint alleging mistreatment by sheriff’s department staff after his arrest due to his transgender status. A trial seeking damages is scheduled for October.
Sheriff Robert G. Luna expressed disappointment in Benza’s actions and said they undermined the department’s integrity and community trust. Benza’s lawyer argued that the use of force was justified but acknowledged mistakes in handling the situation. Benza is expected to be fired and face up to 10 years in prison for the civil rights violation.
Brock expressed relief at the plea agreement and said he feels lucky to have received justice. He has since found employment and is working towards completing his master’s degree. His lawyer hopes that the case will hold law enforcement accountable for misconduct and encourage adherence to their stated values of integrity and accountability.
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