Tommy Rodella, the Sheriff of Rio Arriba County, New Mexico was found guilty this week of federal firearms charges, assault and the violation of a citizen’s civil rights, after he used his badge as a weapon on another driver during a road rage fit.
U.S. Attorney Damon Martinez made a statement today about the verdict, saying that:
“Today a federal jury found that in attacking an innocent civilian, Sheriff Rodella chose to abuse his power rather than uphold his oath to protect the public. I commend the victim who testified in this case for having the courage to step forward and assert his civil rights, and for trusting the Department of Justice to protect him. I am hopeful that today’s verdict brings a measure of justice to the victim and the people of Rio Arriba County.”
Rodella’s attorney, Bob Gorence said that his client will be appealing the verdict, claiming that the victim has a personal vendetta against officer Rodella.
According to court documents, Rodella was off duty and driving his personal Jeep when he chased victim Michael Tafoya down the highway. Rodela had apparently become angered by something that Tafoya did while on the road and felt the need to peruse him, despite being off duty.
READ MORE: http://thefreethoughtproject.com/cop-guilty-assaulting-man-badge/
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