Feds investigating alleged police brutality case

by Mindy Aguon

Guam - A special task force has been formed by the chief of police to investigate allegations that police used excessive force during a raid at a Dededo home back in March.  The Federal Bureau of Investigation is working with GPD officers to conduct a criminal investigation into the allegations. 

Back on March 28 law enforcement executed a search warrant at a home on Hikamas Street in Dededo relative to a stolen credit card report.  GPD Spokesperson Officer Paul Tapao says a man who was related to the suspect was injured and required medical care.  It is alleged that officers used excessive force causing the man's injuries.

Following that raid police arrested 21-year-old Jeremy Allen Evaristo and 33-year-old Roke Mendiola Quintanilla on 15 counts of fraudulent use of a credit card, criminal impersonation, conspiracy, and guilt established by complicity. The two men are accused of picking up a man's wallet at the Guam Premier Outlet and racking up $10,000 worth of merchandise.  

Police were able to recover several thousand dollars worth of items that were purchased with the victim's credit cards.  

Officer Tapao says the criminal investigation is ongoing as well as the internal affairs investigation into the matter.