Padila Defense Team: Reserve Judgment
BOBBY ARDOIN
Editor/Consulting Writer
The criminal defense team hired by Sunset police chief Louis Padilla is asking for the public to withhold judgment for the veteran law enforcement officer until all the facts alleged in his Tuesday arrest and federal grand jury indictment can be reviewed by the court system.
Padilla who is out on a $30,000 bond after being charged, has pleaded not guilty to a 2023 civil rights violation that alleges injuries and unreasonable use of force in connection with an arrest, according to court documents and press release issued by federal officials.
The charge contained in the indictment carries a maximum 10-year prison sentence.
A Wednesday morning press release issued by attorneys representing Padilla stated there will be more facts relevant to the indictment against Padilla that will be presented as the case moves forward through the federal court system.
Acadiana-area news outlets made the Padilla arrest their top story on Tuesday.
“Let us review the body camera, witnesses statements and statements of the participants,” the press release said.
The press release also referred to the “spate of lawsuits” currently being filed against law enforcement officers “who come into contact with disrespectful and uncooperative” young men. Resisting arrest and tussling with the police can lead to consequences.”
Federal Court documents filed in connection with the arrest of Padilla allege that Padilla violated a Constitutional law that deprives individuals of “any rights, privileges or immunities protected by the Constitution.”
The indictment also alleges Padilla willfully used unreasonable force during an investigation and detention on an individual who was restrained in handcuffs, causing injuries to the thumb and wrists.
