2 former Las Cruces Police officers indicted in holding cell beating

Two former Las Cruces Police officers have been indicted for allegedly beating an inmate in a holding cell in late December 2014.

The incident was caught on video from inside the cell.

Richard Garcia and Danny Salcido have been indicted on aggravated battery charges.

New Mexico Attorney General Balderas and Third Judicial District Attorney D’Antonio will jointly prosecute the former officers for the incident that took place in late December 2014.

“I am committed to officer safety and citizen safety in New Mexico, but when an officer violates the public’s trust, they must be held accountable to the full extent of the law,” said Attorney General Balderas. “All New Mexicans are entitled to safety and equal treatment under the law.”

“Law enforcement officers are our first line of defense against crime, so it is imperative that they maintain the trust of the public. Any allegations of police misconduct will be fully investigated and prosecuted when a crime has been committed,” said District Attorney Mark D’Antonio. “This joint prosecution with the Office of Attorney General demonstrates our shared commitment to cooperative efforts in investigating and prosecuting cases critical to public safety in Doa Ana County.”