In April 2023, Deputy Michael Martinez arrested a 20-year-old woman for careless driving and DUI. While she was handcuffed in the back of his patrol car, Martinez sexually assaulted her by touching her genitals, legs, and chest. He disabled his lapel camera and attempted to destroy the vehicle’s recording system to conceal the assault. The sheriff’s office recovered the footage, leading to his arrest. Martinez pleaded guilty to federal charges and was sentenced to nine years in prison. The victim filed a civil suit against the county, which responded with legal action claiming Martinez acted outside the scope of his duties.
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