Indio settles lawsuit with parolee who says he was beaten during an arrest

City of Indio settles a lawsuit with a man who alleged excessive force was used in his arrest by two Indio Police officers back in September 2014.

According to a news release on the Indio Police website, earlier this month, a 140-thousand dollar settlement was reached between the city and 24-year old Ruben Martinez.

33-year old officer Charles Holloway is accused of felony assault by a police officer. and 28-year old officer Gerardo Martinez was also charged with felony perjury, filing a false police report and allegedly helping in a cover-up. Both officers are still awaiting trial on those charges.

The incident outside the Pueblo Viejo Grill was caught on surveillance video. Neither officer works for the police department any more, according to the release.

“The events of this tragic incident are not representative of the excellent work the members of the Indio Police Department carry out each day in service to our community, says Indio Police Chief Richard Twiss. “However, they did occur and we acknowledge that.

“The Indio Police Department took the allegations seriously and appreciate the trust and confidence the reporting party placed in us. We have a duty and responsibility to investigate allegations and that process began immediately. We remain committed to our vision statement, Our Community… Our Commitment!”

The alleged victim, Ruben Martinez, a parolee was also charged with seven felonies.