Knowing when to call 911 and when to use a non-emergency number can save lives. Avoid diverting resources needed in actual emergencies.

A former Mississippi State Capitol Police officer has been indicted on federal charges for allegedly using excessive force against a handcuffed arrestee.

In a Thursday news release, the U.S. Department of Justice identified the officer as Jeffery Walker, a former Capitol Police Flex Unit officer.

An indictment unsealed on Wednesday states Walker used excessive force, including the use of dangerous weapons and force resulting in bodily injury against a handcuffed arrestee, identified only as E.S.

Federal prosecutors said Walker was driving an unmarked police car on July 27, 2022, when he tried to stop a vehicle driven by E.S. The driver failed to stop, which led Walker to initiate a pursuit.

"During the pursuit, several Jackson Police Department officers followed behind until Walker cut E.S. off, causing Walker to run into a tree and E.S. to swerve into the yard behind Walker's car. An assisting JPD officer pulled E.S. from the car and handcuffed him without issue. Shortly after taking control of E.S., who was still handcuffed and compliant at this point, Walker slammed E.S.' head into the hood of E.S.' car, put him on the ground and kicked him in the head and face area," the DOJ news release said.

The DOJ said Walker was charged with felony deprivation of rights under color of law. If convicted, Walker faces up to 10 years in prison.

If he is convicted, a federal district court judge would determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The FBI Jackson Field Office is investigating the case.