(WWL-TV) An Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant was arrested after allegedly beating a handcuffed inmate in Criminal District Court in front of other officers and bystanders.

William Holmes, 38, faces counts of simple battery and malfeasance in officer following the alleged March 1 attack.

According to the affidavit, Cornell Eugene was arrested at Criminal Court after failing a drug and alcohol screening, one of the terms of his probation. When Deputy Darren Vicknair attempted to take Eugene into custody, he allegedly fought back. Holmes then “assisted with gaining control of Mr. Eugene.”

Once handcuffed, Eugene was escorted to the Section L lobby by Holmes and three other Sheriff’s Office employees. Witnesses say Holmes then struck Eugene in the face and head from behind while he was still handcuffed.

According to witnesses, including the other sheriff’s office employees, Eugene was not being combative or resistant.

Lt. Holmes has been suspended without pay pending the results of disciplinary proceedings. He was booked into the Orleans Justice Center.