El Monte Police Defend Beating Of Suspect They Nearly Blinded
LOS ANGELES (AP) — El Monte police are defending the actions of officers who are accused of beating a man so violently that he was left nearly blind.
Attorney Brad Gage said about six officers pummeled his client Cornelio David Chavez for at least 10 minutes as they sought to arrest Chavez on outstanding warrants at his mother's home. Gage says an officer also pointed a gun or Taser at Chavez' 3-year-old nephew.
In a news release, El Monte police said Chavez appeared to be under the influence of drugs when he attacked the officers.
Prosecutors filed several charges against Chavez in connection with the incident.
Gage has filed a claim against the Police Department. If it's rejected, he plans to file a lawsuit.
The department is conducting an investigation into allegations of excessive use of force.
Gage said the beating was so severe the officers broke "virtually every bone in his face."
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