Marion County deputy shoots girlfriend while cleaning guns, police say

MARION COUNTY, Florida. Ocala, OK – A Marion County police officer was arrested Thursday after accidentally shooting his girlfriend in the head, according to Ocala police.

Leslie Boileau, 32, called police and reported that he accidentally shot his girlfriend while the two were cleaning firearms, according to an affidavit.

The two had just returned from dinner when Boileau told officers that his girlfriend asked him to show her how to use a gun when they “pointed the guns at each other” and a shot went off from his gun, the affidavit states.

After officers stopped asking questions, Boileau said, “I know this looks really bad” and “I told her I don’t want this to happen,” according to the affidavit.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken said in a statement. “The Ocala Police Department is working with the District Attorney’s Office to ensure justice is served.”

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office said Boileau was “terminated effective immediately” after serving as a deputy sheriff for eight years.

“We are heartbroken for the victim’s family and friends. Tens of thousands of law enforcement officers do a commendable job every day. But unfortunately, the tragic actions of a single officer are felt throughout the police community. The Ocala Police Department has the support of my office as they complete their investigation into this tragic incident,” Sheriff Billy Woods said in a press release.

Boileau is charged with manslaughter and is being held without bail in the Marion County Jail.

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