Internal Investigation Launched Following Accusations
The New London Police Department has announced it is conducting an internal investigation in response to allegations of police brutality made by a Connecticut College student. The student, Lee Messier, claims that he was assaulted by officers during an arrest at a dormitory on campus last weekend.
Student Details Harrowing Encounter
According to a news report from Fox 61, Messier, a junior at Connecticut College, states that he was handcuffed and thrown to the ground by officers as he attempted to share information about an assault on a female that had occurred in a neighboring dorm room. According to Messier, he was forced to the ground, threatened with Mace, and received several direct blows to the head from the arresting officer's knee. He also alleges that other officers kicked him in the back and pressed his head forcefully into the ground.
Police Response to Allegations
In a press release, the New London Police Department asserts that Messier, 21, interfered with their investigation and exacerbated the situation. They claim that he was instructed multiple times not to interfere and to maintain distance from the officers, but he failed to comply. As a result, Messier was arrested and charged with interfering with police.
Arresting Officer's Troubled History
FOX 61 reported that the arresting officer, Joshua Bergeson, had been previously fired for an alleged beating and pepper spraying incident three years prior. However, the police union filed a complaint with the state labor board for wrongful termination, and the case was eventually settled, allowing Bergeson to regain his position.
Deputy Chief Peter Reichard of the New London Police Department stated that due to the ongoing investigation into the recent incident, he could not comment on the specific details of the case at this time.
Department's Stated 'Commitment to Transparency'
'The police department released a statement on its Facebook page, emphasizing its commitment to investigating all complaints against its members in an open, fair, and truth-seeking manner. The statement also highlights the importance of maintaining a relationship of trust and confidence between the department's personnel and the community they serve.
In light of these principles, an internal investigation into the Connecticut College incident was ordered by Chief Margaret Ackley on October 16, 2016, after receiving complaints of police misconduct. Deputy Chief Reichard has been assigned to lead the internal investigation, with the findings and relevant facts to be made public upon its conclusion.
The department acknowledges that opinions on the incident will vary and may incite emotion, but it urges the public to remain civil, respectful, and maintain an open dialogue with the police.