:: iTEMS OF INTEREST ::
Firing of Officer in Taped Beating is Urged
Los Angeles Times, Article Date: July 30, 2005
LAPD Officer John Hatfield was teary eyed as he begged to keep his job. But the board of rights panel ruled unanimously that all blows for which Hatfield faced discipline one kick, 11 flashlight blows and five kneelings were not sanctioned by policy. Capt. Gary Williams, chairman of the panel, wrote that the kick and the flashlight blows indicated that Hatfield was an out-of-control officer at best. Of more concern was the end of the incident, Williams said. Hatfield kneed Miller twice, then seemed to consciously take time to reposition himself to deliver three more kneeings, Capt. Williams said.
The incident took place early on June 23, 2004, alongside Compton Creek.
Najiee Ali, activist, praised the ruling.
Four other officers involved in the incident: Michael OConnor, Todd Behrens, Peter Bueno and Phillip Watson were suspended for misconduct. David Hale is set to go before a board of rights in the fall.
|
