Former US Customs Officer Pleads Guilty to Obstruction of Justice
A former U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer has pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in federal court in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Christopher M. Holbrook, 31, was charged with falsifying a report regarding his use of force against an individual, referred to as R.A.M., on March 23, 2015.
According to the plea agreement, Holbrook admitted to falsifying an official document by claiming that R.A.M. actively resisted and attempted to pull away, and that he lost control and they both fell to the floor. However, in reality, Holbrook intentionally swept R.A.M.’s legs out from under him and caused R.A.M.’s head to hit the floor.
“Federal law enforcement officers have an unassailable duty to uphold the law,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore. “The defendant’s unlawful actions, obstruction of justice, and intentional falsification of a report, undermines the public’s confidence in our criminal justice system.”
“Law enforcement officers are accorded tremendous power to enforce the law and ensure justice. Preventing the abuse of this authority is necessary to protect the rights of our citizens and to maintain public trust in law enforcement agencies,” said U.S. Attorney John C. Anderson.
The case was investigated by CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brock Taylor and Trial Attorney Julia Gegenheimer are prosecuting the case.
Christopher M. Holbrook faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date has yet to be scheduled.
Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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