Following a video going viral depicting sheriff's deputies beating a man in California after attempting to flee via a horse, 10 deputies have been forced on administration leave.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff John McMahon reported the developments of the case today.

A KNBC-TV video feed taken from a helicopter showed deputies pursuing a suspect on horseback.

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The man who the deputies were chasing after was identified as 30-year old Francis Jared Pusok who was fleeing through the dessert.

Upon catching up with him, the video showed that the deputies had tazed him and dropped him to the ground.

Stretched out on the ground, the deputies proceeded to beat up a defenceless Pusok.

The video showed the two deputies kicking him in the groin and head while repeatedly punching him in the back.

McMahon commented that he was disturbed and troubled to see the content of the video, adding that what took place was not in line with the policies and procedures of the department.

An internal investigation has been launched within the department regarding the deputies' use of force.

At the same time, members of the Specialized Investigations Details are conducting a criminal investigation focused on the actions of Pusok and the deputies involved.

Pusok was initially part of an identity theft investigation. When police were attempting to serve a search warrant, Pusok drove off.

He later ditched the car and took a horse, leading the deputies on a wild desert chase.

McMahon said he suspects Pusok fled thinking that he was being approached for a potential parole violation.

When the deputies caught up with him, Pusok was booked with a suspicion of felony evading, stealing a horse, possession of stolen property, as well as reckless driving.

Officers said they had previously seen a video of Pusok shooting a puppy, which could have been a reason why he was viewed as having an aggressive nature. 

TagsFrancis Pusok, california, FBI, San Bernardino deputies, horse chase beating, police brutality