SC deputies cleared of wrongdoing in use of force captured by ‘On Patrol: Live’
Following a viral video where Richland County deputies were seen forcibly removing a man from his vehicle following a traffic stop — resulting in injuries to the man’s face — a magistrate judge determined the deputies acted lawfully, according to the sheriff’s department.
During an episode of “On Patrol: Live,” several Richland County deputies were captured fighting with Maxie Outen, 31, as they attempted to remove him from his vehicle during a traffic stop on Hardscrabble Road for failing to maintain lane.
Minutes passed as deputies yanked on Outen’s arms and legs as the 31-year-old continually resisted and kicked at deputies, as seen on the show. In the end, Outen was left with injuries to his face, including a bruise around his left eye with blood surrounding his nose and lips.
In response to the encounter, the department said in a news release that it would review its use of force policy and the present the incident before its Citizens’ Advisory Council for recommendations.
On Jan. 17, the council advised that deputies involved in the incident should receive additional training on de-escalation and review the department’s use of force policy, according to a news release.
“I agree with their recommendations, and I’ve tasked the training unit to hand this immediately,” Lott said in a news release.
In addition, a chief magistrate — who was not identified — determined that deputies did not commit a crime in forcibly apprehending Outen, according to a department news release.
Charges against Outen, which include with possession of a schedule 1 narcotic, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, transport of liquor by vehicle with a seal broken, third-degree assault and battery and resisting arrest, remain pending, according to the release and court records.
