WATCH: Video released showing reason why Sunland Park Chief of Police was fired
UPDATE (04/08): Sunland Park officials released surveillance video showing Sunland Park Chief of Police Javier Guerra's confrontation with a suspect in custody. The video, which does not include audio, shows a man handcuffed by one hand who appears to interrupt Guerra, who is speaking with an officer; an argument develops between Guerra and the suspect.
As Guerra approaches the suspect, he appears to ask the suspect to calm down. But the arguing appears to intensify. The arguing continues and moments later, Guerra is seen reaching for the suspect's neck with his right hand. A brief struggle ensues before Guerra disengages and walks away. A few words appear to be exchanged before Guerra walks into another office.
The officer who was speaking to Guerra walked off camera prior to when Guerra grabbed the suspect by the neck.
SUNLAND PARK, New Mexico -- Sunland Park's City manager announced the termination of Sunland Park Chief of police Javier Guerra.
Guerra was placed on administrative leave back in March.
The City Manager released this statement.
“As of yesterday, April 6, 2022, the City of Sunland Park has terminated its Police Chief, Javier Guerra. The termination follows a careful review of an incident which occurred on March 17, 2022 and which was recorded on video. The same day the incident occurred, the City placed the former Chief on administrative leave and began an investigation. The City does not condone the behavior depicted in the video. The City’s investigation is ongoing and cannot provide further comment at this time.”
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