In a recent development, a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy has agreed to plead guilty to a federal civil rights violation for using excessive force on a transgender man. The incident occurred in 2023 when the deputy, identified as Joseph Benza III, was involved in the arrest of then 23-year-old Emmett Brock.
Benza, 36, was charged with one felony count of deprivation of rights under color of law for his actions during the incident. Following this, Benza and potentially other employees have been relieved of duty by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. An internal administrative investigation has been initiated based on new information uncovered during the federal investigation.
