Eric Huxley, convicted of excessive force, receives a one-year sentence for his actions during a 2021 arrest.
Eric Huxley, a 45-year-old police sergeant from Indianapolis, was sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison after pleading guilty to violating civil rights. The incident that led to his conviction occurred on September 24, 2021, during an arrest for disorderly conduct. The victim, who had been handcuffed and restrained by another officer, was assaulted by Huxley, who stomped on his face. The assault was captured on the officer’s body-worn camera, providing irrefutable evidence of the excessive use of force.
In May 2023, Huxley entered a guilty plea to a civil rights charge, acknowledging his unlawful actions. His behavior drew widespread condemnation, especially given that the victim was already restrained, rendering the use of force both unnecessary and excessive. This incident brought attention to broader concerns about police misconduct, especially in cases where officers use force in situations that do not warrant it.
U.S. Attorney Zachary Myers of the Southern District of Indiana emphasized the importance of holding law enforcement accountable for misconduct. “In addition to the trauma inflicted on victims, police officers who break the law and use excessive force damage the community’s trust in the law enforcement profession,” Myers said. He highlighted the need for justice, not only for the victim in this case but also for the integrity of the justice system.
The incident occurred during a routine arrest for disorderly conduct in Indianapolis. The victim was subdued and under control when Huxley used unnecessary force, which prompted an internal investigation and later federal charges. The footage from the body camera was a key piece of evidence in the case, demonstrating the severity of the officer’s actions.
Critics have noted that this case is yet another example of police misconduct, particularly regarding the use of force. There have been numerous calls for reform in how law enforcement agencies address and prevent excessive force incidents. In this case, Huxley’s sentence serves as a reminder that officers who engage in illegal and violent actions while performing their duties will face legal consequences.
The public’s reaction to Huxley’s sentencing has been mixed. While many commend the justice system for holding a police officer accountable, others argue that such cases often lead to minimal penalties for officers involved in misconduct. This case has reignited discussions about police accountability and the need for stricter measures to address violence in law enforcement practices.
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) faced scrutiny following the incident, with questions about internal oversight and how officers are trained to handle situations involving the use of force. This case adds to the ongoing debate about the relationship between police and the communities they serve, especially in a time when trust in law enforcement is under significant strain.