A Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy has agreed to plead guilty to federal civil rights violations following the excessive force used against Emmett Brock, a transgender man.
The deputy, Joseph Benza III, 36, from Corona, California, entered the plea agreement amid accusations stemming from a 2023 incident where he assaulted Brock, then 23, outside of a 7-Eleven store. According to reports, Benza was charged with one felony count of deprivation of rights under color of law, which could result in up to 10 years of federal imprisonment.
The incident unfolded as Benza responded to what was supposed to be a domestic violence disturbance, but it went awry when Brock, who was feeling frustrated for personal reasons, drove past and gestured at Benza. This seemingly innocuous exchange escalated rapidly as Benza began tailing Brock, who eventually called 911 to report being followed, demonstrating his growing concern.
At the 7-Eleven on Mills Avenue, Benza confronted Brock without issuing any commands and quickly resorted to brutal force. Surveillance footage revealed the deputy slamming Brock—who weighed significantly less than Benza—onto the pavement, punching him multiple times and pressing his face down. Brock suffered various injuries, including abrasions and contusions, alongside a concussion.
Following the arrest, Brock faced significant humiliation, being placed in holding cells inconsistent with his legal gender identity, and was subjected to inappropriate searches. This treatment exemplifies the troubling patterns of discrimination faced by transgender individuals within law enforcement interactions.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Benza was found to have omitted key details in his incident report concerning the provocation—specifically the finger gesture—and instead fabricated claims alleging Brock had bitten him, which was contradicted by medical evidence.
Prosecutors expressed deep concern over Benza’s egregious conduct. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert G. Luna noted, “It is deeply troubling to have a member of our Department violate the trust placed in them to uphold the law by abusing their authority.” These actions not only tarnished the reputation of the sheriff's department but also highlighted the broader issue of accountability within law enforcement.
The aftermath of the incident includes Benza being relieved of duty and the initiation of internal investigations by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Authorities are now tasked with examining the systemic issues surrounding such incidents, aiming to rectify the underlying misconduct and restore community trust.
Brock's troubling encounter also brought to light the need for law enforcement agencies to prioritize the civil rights of all individuals, particularly marginalized communities often subjected to discrimination and violence.
Looking forward, Benza’s legal proceedings are set to continue, with court appearances anticipated shortly, as the case remains under scrutiny not only for its immediate impacts but also for what it signifies about law enforcement practices and the urgent need for reform.
This plea deal, coupled with the internal fallout, paints a significant picture of accountability, urging the public to demand ethical treatment from those sworn to serve and protect.
