WASHINGTON, DC — Marcus Bias, a 27-year-old former District of Columbia Department of Corrections officer, entered a guilty plea for the deprivation of rights under color of law. This development was shared by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Assistant Director David Sundberg of the Washington Field Office, and Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke.
Bias admitted to violating the constitutional rights of an inmate by pushing the individual’s head into a metal doorframe, causing serious injury. This incident occurred on June 12, 2019, and involved a handcuffed detainee who was compliant and surrounded by officers at the time of the assault.
U.S. Attorney Graves emphasized the duty of corrections officers to protect those in their custody, denouncing Bias’ actions as a breach of this responsibility. Assistant Attorney General Clarke and Assistant Director Sundberg echoed the sentiment, affirming the commitment of their respective departments to uphold civil rights and hold violators accountable.
The sentencing for Bias is scheduled for June 28, with potential penalties including up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. The sentence will be determined based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other relevant factors.