On Tuesday, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors in Southern California approved paying a $650,000 settlement to a man whose beating by sheriff's deputies was caught on camera by a news helicopter.
On April 9, Francis Pusok, 30, fled from a home in Apple Valley after deputies served a search warrant, leading them on an hours-long chase. He allegedly stole a horse, and after riding four miles, was thrown off as deputies approached. The NBC Los Angeles news helicopter was hovering above, and recorded a video that shows Pusok lying face down on the ground with his hands behind his back as he is kicked and punches by deputies, the Los Angeles Times reports. Ten of those deputies are now on paid leave.
The settlement ends any claims Pusok could make against the county or sheriff's department, but does not stop the disciplinary and criminal investigation launched by Sheriff John McMahon, who was "disturbed" by the incident. In agreeing to the settlement, San Bernardino County admits no wrongdoing. "The sole purpose of this agreement for both parties is to avoid the costs involved in litigation," Supervisor James Ramos said in a statement. "This agreement is a fair outcome for everyone involved, including taxpayers."
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