Beaumont Police Officer Accused of Blinding Woman Again Delays Trial

A former Beaumont police officer accused of blinding a local woman during a DUI stop last year appeared in court this week to again delay a trial-setting conference.

A "trial readiness conference" for the man was delayed for at least the seventh time on Monday, according to court records.

Clark did appear in a Riverside courtroom for the brief proceeding, according to District Attorney Spokesman John Hall.  Clark's defense requested the continuance, and the next conference was scheduled for April 19.

Hall tells Banning-Beaumont Patch that these delays are not uncommon as a case makes its way through the judicial system.

"They can continue as long as either side, or both sides in some cases, feels they need more time and until the judge decides there have been enough continuances and sets a trial date," Hall explained.

In past court appearances, Clark's attorney - Kasey A. Castillo, from a firm that solely represents law enforcement officers - has requested more time to go over Grand Jury transcripts and evidence.

Prosecutors contend that Monique Hernandez was blinded following a DUI stop on Feb. 21, 2012 in which a high-powered pepper spray device was used on her eyes.

On April 26, 2012 Clark was arraigned on four counts: assault under the color or authority, assault with a less lethal weapon, use of force causing serious bodily injury, and assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury. There is also an enhancement that he personally inflicted great bodily injury.

Clark has not been an employee with the city of Beaumont since July 2, 2012, according to city spokeswoman Darci Mulvihill.