ESPANOLA, N.M. (AP) | A northern New Mexico sheriff’s deputy is facing criticism after a video showed him shouting a homophobic slur at a student with special needs and using a stun gun on him.
The Santa Fe New Mexican reports the May 10 episode at Espanola Valley High School has attracted the attention of the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico and state Attorney General Hector Balderas.
According to a lapel video, Rio Arriba County sheriff’s deputy Jeremy Barnes called the 15-year-old boy a homophobic slur then used a stun gun on him after he refused to follow orders.
The Santa Fe New Mexican also obtained the video below. Warning: it contains graphic content and language.
Officials say the boy had been detained on suspicion of taking part in a drug deal.
Rio Arriba County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Randy Sanches said the office has launched an internal investigation.
Photo via YouTube screenshot.
