Friday, November 20, 2020

CA PRISON GUARDS CHARGED IN PRISONER'S DEATH

by Bob Walsh


Two correctional officers formerly employed by the California Dept. of Corrections (and rehabilitation) have been relating to the demise of a guest of the state who went toes up in 2016 at New Folsom Prison.  

Arturo Pacheco, 38, was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury on two counts of falsifying records in a federal investigation and two counts of deprivation of rights under color of law.

Ashley Marie Aurich, 31, was charged with one count of falsifying records.

Allegedly the two were escorting a 65-year old criminal whose hands were cuffed behind him when Pacheco bent down and yanked the prisoners legs out from under him from behind.  He suffered a broken jaw and other injuries and died two days later.

The two officers are alleged to have filed CYA reports concerning the incident and concealed the presents of other staff where the incident occurred.  

Pacheco is also alleged to have deliberately pepper sprayed and inmate who was in fact complying with orders at the time he was sprayed.  Pacheco is alleged to have filed a false report in an attempt to justify that incident also.  

Pacheco could face up to 30 years and a $250,000 fine if convicted and sentenced on all counts.  Aurich could face up to 20 years and a $250,000 fine.  Both officers were sacked for misconduct and dishonesty.

3 comments:

Trey said...

I see a plea on the horizon.

Gary said...

Charges seem light, assuming the story is accurate.

bob walsh said...

There may be local charges pending. I believe these are federal charges.