Cop Under Investigation for Excessive Force Following Car Chase

The Yonkers Police Department recently disclosed that an officer had been placed on restricted duty. The department took this precaution as investigators review the officer's use of force during an arrest following the pursuit of a stolen vehicle.

The chase

Just after 9:45 pm on March 14, a distressed man approached YPD officers near McLean and Van Cortlandt Park Avenues. The victim reported that his vehicle had been stolen moments earlier, prompting law enforcement to initiate a pursuit.

Officers followed the stolen vehicle throughout the city while adhering to established safety protocols. However, the pursuit took a perilous turn as the suspect behind the wheel of the stolen vehicle began to drive recklessly. The driver ultimately caused collisions with several YPD vehicles; inflicting injuries upon officers involved in the pursuit.

The pursuit concluded with a crash at the intersection of Warburton Avenue and Glenwood Avenue. Officers then successfully arrested the unnamed suspect. However, during the process of placing the suspect in custody, force was reportedly employed by law enforcement personnel.

Use of force investigation

Following the conclusion of the pursuit and arrest, the Yonkers Police Department began an investigation into the use of force during the apprehension. This preliminary investigation, conducted by the department's Internal Affairs Division, revealed that one officer had utilized force “ not consistent with training, procedures, or department values ,” according to a statement issued by the YPD's Public Information Officer on Friday.

The department emphasized that this officer, whose identity remains undisclosed, acted independently in their use of force. They assert that all other officers present at the scene adhered to established policies and procedures.

In light of these findings, the implicated officer has been placed on restricted duty pending the completion of the investigation. The police also referred this matter to the Westchester County District Attorney's Public Integrity Bureau for further investigation.

Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano expressed dismay and disappointment regarding the officer's alleged actions. He asserted that such behavior does not align with the values of the Yonkers Police Department. Police Commissioner Christopher Sapienza echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the department's commitment to cooperation with investigators.

Our actions in response to this incident, as opposed to the actions taken by this Officer, accurately represent who we are as a Department and as members of this community.