Former Florida deputy charged with manslaughter after shooting girlfriend while cleaning guns

Florida. Ocala, OK — A Marion County officer was charged with manslaughter Thursday after accidentally shooting his girlfriend in the head as the two were cleaning guns, according to Ocala police.

Leslie Boileau, 32, and his girlfriend lived together and had just returned from dinner when Boileau told officers that his girlfriend had asked him to show her how to use a handgun when “they pointed their guns at each other” and a shot went off from his gun, WKMG reported.

“I know this looks really bad. I told her I didn't want this to happen,” Boileau said, according to an 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 being held without bail in the Marion County Jail.