Lake Charles, LA –
On August 2, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives began an investigation on Deputy Ed Choi, 39, Lake Charles, after receiving a complaint in reference to previous incidents of domestic abuse.
During the initial investigation it was discovered the incidents occurred several weeks prior to the complaint being filed. The investigation revealed in addition to domestic abuse, Choi also prevented the victim from leaving the residence. The investigation was conducted by detectives and the case was turned over to the Calcasieu Parish District Attorney’s Office. Earlier today the CPDAO accepted charges for domestic abuse battery; and false imprisonment.
After turning himself in, Choi was arrested and issued a misdemeanor summons. Prior to being terminated today by Sheriff Tony Mancuso, Choi worked at the Calcasieu Parish Regional Training Academy and had been with department over 6 years.
“Our deputies will always be held accountable for their actions,” says Sheriff Tony Mancuso. “Choi has been on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. At the time of the complaint detectives did not have enough evidence to make an arrest. Due to the incidents being reported after the fact and the involved parties already being separated there was no reason to believe any further threat of abuse would occur. Detectives conducted a thorough and complete investigation to corroborate the allegations.”
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.