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LPSO takes over investigation into Scott police lieutenant
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SCOTT, La. (KLFY) -- An investigation is underway into a Scott Police lieutenant who allegedly choked a man. The Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office confirmed they have taken over the investigation.
The actions came under attack after a video of Scott Police Lieutenant Brun Lavergne at the Scott Boudin Festival surfaced on social media. The 30-second video is making waves and sparking conversations about police brutality with Lavergne in the middle.
The short video begins with Lavergne grabbing the neck of 20-year-old Anthony Wayne Babino Jr. Babino's attorneys claim Lavergne is choking Babino with a banned carotid hold.
The lawyers say Babino was unarmed and in clear physical distress, on the verge of passing out. After about 10 seconds Lavergne releases his hold, and Babino and his friends walk away.
Babino's attorneys claim the lieutenant's actions were illegal. A year after the death of George Floyd, the U.S. Department of Justice announced new limits on the use of chokehold and carotid restraints.
The Pelican State followed suit, creating a neck restraint prohibition. The law now says choke holds and carotid holds are banned, though there are exceptions. If an officer believes he or another person is at risk of great bodily harm, law enforcement can utilize the hold. The carotid hold can also be used if deadly force is authorized.
News 10 tried to find out if Lieutenant Lavergne was put on leave. Scott Police Chief Chad Leger referred News 10 to LPSO. A spokesperson for LPSO says they do not comment on ongoing investigations.