Florida Deputy Indicted for Using Unreasonable Force by Shooting Unarmed Woman

PAISLEY, Fl. – A Lake County, Florida, Sheriff deputy was indicted for allegedly using unreasonable force by shooting an unarmed woman and misleading investigators about the circumstances.

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The Department of Justice announced on Wednesday, the indictment for the Civil Rights offense. On October 11, 2016, former Deputy Richard Palmer, 58, allegedly shot at Robin Pearson, 54, after pulling her over in a poorly lit area. Palmer said that the woman’s left hand was in her pocket and she was pulling a dark object out of her pocket leading to the shooting.

This information was determined to be false after a review of the dash camera footage but it was learned that Pearson was carrying a cell phone. Pearson was shot in the groin causing significant injuries. After Pearson fell to the ground, Palmer rendered aid to her and called for assistance. She was transported to the hospital where she was treated and eventually released.

Pearson sued Palmer in October 2017, and they settled in September 2018. In the court documents it was stated that the injuries sustained led to permanent disfigurement and disability.Palmer resigned on Wednesday after learning of his indictment, Lake County Sheriff’s officials said.

The Department of Justice officials said that Palmer, if convicted, will face up to 10 years in prison for using unreasonable force and 20 years for his false statements. In addition, he will face fines.