A District Heights police officer who allegedly shot a handcuffed theft suspect in the back during an arrest was indicted on attempted first-degree murder charges Thursday.

Sgt. Johnnie Riley, an eight-year veteran in the department, was arresting Kalvin Kyle, 26, of Washington, D.C., for allegedly driving a stolen motorcycle Sept. 7 when Kyle began to run away, District Heights police have said. As Riley ran after Kyle, he shot him in the back, according to police.

In addition to attempted first-degree murder, Riley, who was placed on administrative leave after the incident, is charged with first- and second-degree assault, use of a handgun to commit a crime and two counts of misconduct in office.

Prince George’s State’s Attorney Angela Alsobrooks announced the indictment Thursday and said Riley turned himself in to the county’s Department of Corrections after the indictment was made and is being held on a no-bond status.

“Police officers are given powers to enforce the law and with those powers comes a great responsibility,” Alsobrooks said. “They must exercise their powers in a way that is reasonable and respects the humanity of everyone they serve.”

Kyle was hospitalized after the shooting, according to police. He is facing charges of theft of a motor vehicle, unlawful removal of property, second-degree escape and resisting arrest. He is scheduled for a hearing in district court Dec. 11, according to online Prince George’s district court records.

A defense attorney for Kyle was not listed with the courts by Thursday, according to online district court records.

A phone number for Kyle and Riley could not be located.

Calls to C.T. Wilson, Riley’s listed attorney, were not returned Thursday.

District Heights Deputy Chief Wendell Brantley was not immediately available for comment Thursday afternoon.

djgross@gazette.net