Charges against an Adams County Sheriff’s Deputy for assaulting a fifteen year-old

17th Judicial District Attorney Don Quick and Adams County Sheriff Doug Darr announce today the arrest and filing of charges against an Adams County Sheriff’s Deputy for assaulting a fifteen year-old.

On June 12, 2011 at approximately 1:10 AM, Adams County Sheriff Deputy Morrow responded to a call about a large disturbance at 8790 Welby Road in Adams County, Colorado. One juvenile was issued a summons and released to a responsible adult and another juvenile, who appeared highly intoxicated, was taken into custody and transported by ambulance to the hospital because parent information could not be obtained from the juvenile. Due the juvenile’s verbally combative behavior, an ambulance crew member restrained the juvenile’s hands and feet for an assessment of injuries. No visible injuries were noted when the juvenile was placed in the ambulance. Witnesses report that Morrow entered the ambulance to retrieve his handcuffs. Morrow was told he could exit though the back door, but insisted on exiting through the side door in front of the ambulance. As he passed the juvenile restrained on the ambulance gurney, Morrow struck the juvenile on the face with a closed fist. It was later determined by medical personnel that the juvenile sustained a broken jaw.

In addition to the criminal charges, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office initiated an internal investigation regarding the incident. The internal investigation was initiated on June 12, 2011. Morrow was placed on administrative leave with pay on June 22, 2011. Morrow was placed on administrative leave without pay on July 12, 2011 upon charges being filed by the Adams County District Attorney’s Office.

“This is an unfortunate day for the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. For the last several weeks our detectives have been engaged in a criminal investigation concerning one of our law enforcement officers. There have been allegations that Deputy David Morrow allegedly used unnecessary force while dealing with an unruly juvenile male. The results of this investigation were presented to the District Attorney today. A decision has been made to file criminal charges against the deputy. This is very serious business. We have a responsibility to investigate all allegations of violations of Colorado Law regardless of the individual’s position. It’s about doing the right thing regardless of the circumstances. It is the only way to maintain the trust and respect of the community we serve. We are not above the law.” says Sheriff Doug Darr.