COUNTY SETTLES WITH BEATING VICTIM

Wasting little time, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors settled with the victim of a beating by Sheriff’s deputies that was televised earlier this month. In a closed session Tuesday morning, the supervisors unanimously approved a $650,000 settlement in connection with the arrest of Francis Pusock, 30, “to avoid litigation expenses.” Pusock, who had warrants for his arrest, fled from deputies in Apple Valley in a car April 9, and then on a stolen horse. After he fell off the horse, deputies converged on him, repeatedly tasing him with stun guns, and kicking and hitting him. The beating was broadcast live by a KNBC helicopter. Under the terms of the agreement, the county “acknowledges no wrongdoing” and settles all potential claims from Pusock that could stem from the incident. Following the beating, Sheriff John McMahon placed 10 deputies—including a detective and a sergeant—on administrative leave. The beating is also being investigated by the FBI.