Mugshot of cop-punched man released

Published 4:07 pm Thursday, December 3, 2015

The Lafayette County Sheriff’s Department has released the mugshot of Chris Barnes, who was arrested two weeks ago during the Ole Miss vs. LSU home football game. Barnes’ wife posted a video on her Facebook page after his arrest which reportedly shows a New Albany police officer, Brock White, punching Barnes in the face during a struggle.

Barnes was charged with three misdemeanor charges, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and public drunkenness. Earlier this week, he was given a subsequent felony charge for assault on law enforcement officer.

Barnes’ wife also posted a photo of her husband that showed serious injuries to his face, claiming it was the damage done by the officer. However, a witness said Barnes was involved in a fight while being held at the Lafayette County Detention Center.

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The mugshot does show a small cut on his left eye, but the wounds appear to be much less severe than the photo the family released after his arrest.

The Sheriff’s Department released the mugshot but would not make a statement, as the case “is under investigation.”

White was moonlighting at the game and was paid by the University of Mississippi for security. He has been suspended with pay during the investigation. Ole Miss asked the FBI to conduct the investigation on the video.

 

Read the EAGLE for updates.