ABC News

Sen. John McCain said today that his "friend" and political supporter, Arizona Sheriff Paul Babeu, who has been accused of threatening to deport his ex-boyfriend, should be given the the benefit of innocence until proven guilty.

"Well of course  Sheriff Babeu is a friend of mine. I do not know the details except what has been published in the media and I am sure there will be a through and complete investigation if there is any allegations of wrongdoing," said McCain, R-Ariz.,. "All I can say is that he also deserves the benefit, as every citizen does, of innocence until proven guilty."

Babeu, who appeared with McCain in campaign advertisements,  stepped down from his post as the Romney campaign's Arizona co-chair after allegations surfaced.

" But I appreciate the support he gave me in my campaign, always will," said McCain.