Officials stated that a former Oklahoma undersheriff was sentenced to 22 months in prison for violating the civil rights of a handcuffed detainee by using excessive force.
On Nov. 8, 2022, Kendall Bryan Morgan, 45, pleaded guilty to one count of deprivation of rights under color of law.
(News Report 2022)
At the plea hearing, Morgan, the former undersheriff in the LeFlore County Sheriff’s Department, admitted that on Jan. 25, 2017, he repeatedly struck a person under arrest and in handcuffs, causing the victim bodily injury.
At the time of the assault, the individual was not resisting arrest and posed no threat to officers or the public.
“The reputation of the entire law enforcement profession is tarnished when an officer betrays the oath to protect and serve,” said Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray of the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. “The sentencing of Mr. Morgan sends a clear message that the FBI will not tolerate anyone who dishonors the badge by using excessive force.”
Assistant Attorney General Clarke, U.S. Attorney Wilson and Special Agent in Charge Gray made the announcement.
The FBI Oklahoma City Field Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarrod Leaman for the Eastern District of Oklahoma and Trial Attorney Avner Shapiro of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.