Border Patrol agents in cirque sex row

SAN DIEGO, June 13 (UPI) -- Two off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents allegedly engaged in a sex act in the audience of a Cirque du Soleil performance in California.

The San Diego County Sheriff's Department said Kallie Helwig, 24, and Gerald Torello, 35, were off-duty and not in uniform March 27 when they allegedly engaged in a sex act in the audience of a Cirque du Soleil performance at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, KNSD-TV, San Diego, reported Wednesday.

Witnesses said the pair were touching each other inappropriately and at least one spectator said they appeared to be engaging in oral sex.

Sheriff's Lt. Kenn Nelson told MSNBC Helwig allegedly punched one of the complaining patrons in the face when the show ended.

Helwig was arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery. Torello was cited for public intoxication and released.

The Border Patrol said the agents, who both joined in 2008, have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation.