A former DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy is facing the consequences of his actions after he pleaded guilty to a federal civil rights violation for assaulting a detainee.
Javarrea Pouncy, 30, willfully used unreasonable force against the detainee on Sept. 27, 2019, while working at the DeSoto Parish jail.
According to court documents, Pouncy and another deputy, DeMarkes Grant, repeatedly punched the detainee during a strip search, throwing approximately 50 punches at the detainee, including in the head and face.
The assault left the detainee hospitalized and diagnosed with a broken eye socket and broken nose, among other injuries.
The FBI New Orleans Field Office investigated the case, and Pouncy faces a penalty of 30 to 37 months in prison under the terms of his plea agreement.
A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Aug. 7, and a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Pouncy’s actions are a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the civil and constitutional rights of those in law enforcement’s care.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Civil Rights Division emphasized the gravity of Pouncy’s actions, stating, ‘Like any law enforcement officer, the defendant had a duty to protect people in his custody. Instead of fulfilling his duty, the defendant abused his authority by beating a detainee who posed no threat to him.’
Javarrea Pouncy, Defendant/Respondent REAL full name, was charged with depriving a detainee of his civil rights under color of law.
The exact criminal charges are depriving a detainee of his civil rights under color of law.
The crime occurred in DeSoto Parish, Louisiana, on Sept. 27, 2019.
The sentence or outcome is 30 to 37 months in prison under the terms of his plea agreement.
The dollar amounts are not applicable in this case.
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Violent CrimeViolent CrimeViolent CrimeViolent Crime