LOS LUNAS, N.M. (AP) - A New Mexico State Police officer is facing charges after authorities say he choked a man attempting to repossess his vehicle, then tried to run from other officers, authorities said Friday.
Los Lunas police said Charles Vernier was arrested Thursday at an apartment complex after officers found him restraining a tow truck operator in a chokehold. Vernier was on leave from the police force at the time of the arrest for an unrelated matter, state police said.
In a video released by Los Lunas police, Vernier is seen hold the confused man as a woman is heard begging Vernier to release him.
According to police, Los Lunas officers arrived on the scene and ordered Vernier several times to let man go. “When the officers approached Mr. Verneir and attempted to place handcuffs, he attempted to run for officers,” Los Lunas Lt. Carl Padilla said.
Padilla said Vernier was taken into custody when he slipped and fell.
He was arrested and charged with aggravated battery and interference with a police officer, and booked into the Valencia County Detention Center.
State Police Chief Pete Kassetas said in a statement that an “internal inquiry” will be launched into the arrest. “As Chief I take my officer’s conduct on and off duty seriously and I will not tolerate this type of behavior,” Kassetas said.
It’s not known if Vernier had an attorney.
State Police said Vernier has been an officer with the agency for nearly two years.
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