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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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.

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


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Source: AAP



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