United States Marine Arrested

Los Angeles: On Friday, June 28, 2002, at approximately 2:00 p.m., Private First Class Matthew Fontenot, an 18 year-old male currently enlisted in the United States Marine Corp, was arrested by officers of the Los Angeles Police Department, under Penal Code Section 1551.1 – Fugitive from Justice, as he disembarked from a military aircraft at the Los Angeles International Airport.
Prior to Fontenot enlisting in the United States Marine Corp, he was an "instructor" with the American Buffalo Soldier’s, a camp for troubled youths. During this time, Fontenot, along with other "instructors", is alleged to have physically abused the youths during physical training.
After a through investigation, Maricopa County [Arizona] officials filed 17 criminal counts, involving cruelty against children, against Private First Class Fontenot. Fontenot is being held without Bail, awaiting his arraignment.
All questions regarding this press release should be forwarded to Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.
This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jose L. Rodriguez Sr., Media Relation Section, 213-485-3586.