Deputies handcuffed Rule and Standish. However, the two continued to struggle with deputies, and Russell used a pepper spray to subdue Standish. A crowd of 30 to 60 people gathered, including the mayor. Witnesses reported the mayor allegedly yelled at Deputy Russell, told bystanders not to answer when questioned and may have threatened Russell's job. Gerenscer said most people will think officers use excessive force when they observe suspects being handcuffed.
Every situation is life-threatening.
Several council members said they were concerned about the incident, but the council has not decided whether to discuss the matter further. Tombstone City Councilmember Rose Maria Iachetti said her job is to set policy, not direct the daily tasks of city workers. As long as they are performing their job, I don't feel I should interfere. Councilmember Joseph M. Perotti Sr. agreed. It has been a year since Tombstone adopted its first city fire code, and although some residents think not enough is being done to enforce the new rules, the volunteer fire department is in the midst of bringing the city up to the new safety standards.