Two Saipan police officers have been placed on administrative leave and are under Internal Affairs investigation for allegedly assaulting a man with a mental disability in Marpi on Dec. 19.
The alleged assault was reported to the Department of Public Safety on Dec. 22 by the man’s father.
At a press conference last week, DPS Commissioner Anthony Macaranas said both officers were immediately placed on administrative duty, disarmed, and removed from street patrol pending the outcome of the investigation.
He said the Office of the Attorney General’s Investigation Division has also been brought in to assist with the case to avoid any perception of bias.
“To ensure a thorough and impartial investigation, DPS requested support from the Attorney General’s office,” Macaranas said. “This partnership will provide additional resources and help uphold the integrity of the process.”
Macaranas emphasized that an individual’s background does not change how officers are expected to treat the public. “Every officer has to treat each person with respect and dignity,” he said. “They cannot go out there and be rogue officers.”
As the case remains in its early stages, DPS is withholding additional details to avoid compromising the investigation.
Macaranas said the department is committed to a transparent and unbiased review of the allegations and will provide updates on the outcome and whether charges will be filed.
According to the victim’s family, the two officers allegedly took the man to Marpi, beat him, released him, and left him to walk home.
