The head of a state sheriffs group says the arrest of a southwest Kansas sheriff last week is offensive to other top law enforcement officials who are bound to a higher code of ethics because of their positions.

Hamilton County Sheriff Richard Garza was arrested last Sunday morning on suspicion of aggravated assault.

Scott County Attorney John Shirley – appointed special prosecutor in the case – told The Associated Press the incident was a “family matter” and there was no physical violence.

Kansas Sheriffs Association executive director Sandy Horton says such arrests are disappointing because it takes a long time to rebuild trust with the public.

Two other Kansas sheriffs also have been criminally charged in the past two years.