MCSO officials accuse detention officer of tasing inmate without justification

PHOENIX (AP) - Maricopa County Sheriff's officials say a detention officer has been arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor assault.

They say 48-year-old Anthony Nguyen was booked into jail Monday afternoon, and the Sheriff's Office is in the process of firing him.

Sheriff's officials say the arrest was the culmination of an investigation that started five months ago.

They say Nguyen was accused of excessive force by deploying his stun gun on an inmate without justification.

His actions were deemed to be excessive force, and Nguyen was placed on administrative leave while the Feb. 19 incident was being investigated.

Sheriff's officials say it was determined that Nguyen's actions violated department policy.

It was unclear Monday night if Nguyen has a lawyer who can speak on his behalf.