PIMA COUNTY, Ariz. — A sheriff’s deputy in southern Arizona is under internal investigation following the circulation of social-media posts that appeared to celebrate the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, officials confirmed this week.
The deputy, identified in online discussions as Ramon Hernandez, allegedly shared a series of posts criticizing Kirk’s political views while describing his death as “karma.”
In the posts, Hernandez reportedly accused Kirk of promoting hate and racism, suggested the United States is “long overdue for a revolution,” and encouraged readers — including law enforcement officers — to “stand on the right side of history.”
He also referenced graphic accounts of civilian harm abroad and criticized both U.S. and international policies in rhetoric that many observers found inflammatory.
Community Concerns Over Impartiality
The social-media activity quickly drew widespread backlash from community members and local leaders, who expressed concern about whether an officer who publicly celebrates violence could be trusted to police impartially.
“Law enforcement officers carry tremendous responsibility and must be held to the highest standards of professionalism,” one local resident said. “If someone in that role is openly cheering a killing, it raises serious questions about their judgment.”
Critics noted that the issue is especially sensitive in politically diverse communities, where officers are expected to serve all residents equally regardless of ideology.
Sheriff’s Department Responds
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department acknowledged the controversy in a statement, confirming that an internal affairs investigation has been opened.
“We are aware of the reports regarding social-media activity by one of our deputies. The matter is being reviewed under our standard internal-affairs process,” a department spokesperson said.
Officials emphasized that no findings have yet been reached and that disciplinary action — ranging from written reprimand to termination — will depend on the investigation’s outcome and department policy.
Calls for Transparency
Civil-rights advocates and local leaders are urging the department to handle the inquiry with openness.
“Public trust in law enforcement depends on accountability,” said a representative from a Tucson-based advocacy group. “The community deserves a transparent process and a clear explanation of how this is being addressed.”
Experts in police oversight note that such reviews typically examine whether an officer’s speech violated professional conduct standards, undermined impartiality, or damaged public trust in the agency.
Deputy Silent, Probe Ongoing
As of Sunday, Hernandez has not publicly commented on the allegations or the investigation. The sheriff’s department has not released details regarding the timeline of the review or whether Hernandez has been placed on administrative leave during the process.
Authorities have encouraged anyone with relevant information about the posts to contact the department’s internal affairs unit.
For now, the incident has reignited long-standing debates about the balance between free expression and the professional obligations of law enforcement officers, particularly in politically charged times.
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