Judge finds Sheriff Arpaio in contempt in racial profiling case

Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio and his top aides on Friday were found in contempt of court for disobeying orders in a racial profiling case, according to multiple reports.

Arpaio, who is known for his hardline stance against illegal immigration, and three deputies violated a federal court ruling aimed at curtailing profiling, a judge said.

{mosads}The three “have demonstrated a persistent disregard for the orders of this court, as well as an intention to violate and manipulate the laws and policies regulating their conduct,” U.S. District Judge Murray Snow wrote in a 162-page ruling, according to the AP.

“In short, the Court finds that the Defendants have engaged in multiple acts of misconduct, dishonesty, and bad faith with respect to the Plaintiff class and the protection of its rights,” the judge added, according to a report from AZ Central.

Arpaio has acknowledged letting officers conduct immigration patrols over a year after the judge barred them from doing so, according to the AP.

Other alleged violations prompting the contempt hearings included failing to turn over video evidence before the profiling trial.

A hearing will be held May 31 to discuss penalties and determine if Arpaio will face a criminal contempt case, according to reports.

Arpaio’s views on immigration and fights with the federal government have made him a figure on the national scene. He recently endorsed presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump.