SAN BERNARDINO - (INT) – A nearly 5-month investigation has resulted in assault charges against three sheriff’s deputies caught on video using excessive force while arresting the rider of a stolen horse at the climax to a chase in Apple Valley last spring.

District Attorney Mike Ramos announced Tuesday that deputies Nicholas Downey, Michael Phelps and Charles Foster will be arraigned next Tuesday for assault by a public officer.

The three were caught on video pummeling Francis Pusok as he laid on the ground with his hands behind his back at the end of the April 9th chase.

Two days after the incident, Sheriff John McMahon said the video was 'disturbing' and he ordered an internal investigation. Ten deputies were placed on administrative leave.

Ramos said on Tuesday “In those rare instances when an officer crosses the line and uses excessive force, the officer must be held accountable”.

In order to avoid litigation, Pusok and the County finalized a $650,000 settlement just weeks following the incident.

Pusok is facing 14 criminal charges including evading arrest, vandalism, cruelty to animals and vandalism. He returns to court September 24th.

Story Date: September 6, 2015