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US officers charged in homeless killing

Two US police officers will face murder charges over the killing of a homeless camper in New Mexico, lawyers say.

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Source: AAP


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US prosecutors say two police officers will face murder charges in the March killing of a homeless camper in New Mexico.

The shooting generated sometimes violent protests around Albuquerque and sparked a federal investigation.

Second District Attorney Kari Brandenburg announced on Monday that police officer Dominique Perez and former Detective Keith Sandy will each face a single count of open murder in the death of 38-year-old James Boyd. It allows prosecutors to pursue either first-degree or second-degree murder charges.

Police say Perez and Sandy fatally shot Boyd, who was holding a knife, during an hours-long standoff. Helmet video appeared to show Boyd surrendering when officers opened fire.

The officers' lawyers say they look forward clearing their clients.

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Albuquerque police recently signed an agreement with the US Department of Justice to overhaul the force.


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