HARTFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT DISCIPLINE REVIEW FORM For: Officer Matthew Secore Date: 07/06/07 Sher (00 Conduct Urbecoming a police offices, 7.04 Intentional, unnogassary and conssive Use OT Foice _ ‘Summary: Gfleer Secore entered Detention in an "upset" state to interview his brother's alleged Atiackér Upon "nieiviewing" the stisosct in an isolated area of Detention, Oficer ‘Seguie choked and piinched tho euspoct without provcarton Advocate's Disciptine Recommendations Chief's Discipline Chosen Documented Counseling __ Oral Reprimmard _ _ Written Reprinand _ Suspension 1 to 5 Days __ Suspension 6 to 10 Days _ __ Suspension 15 to 30 Days _ _ Suspension 46 to 60 Days _ Suspension 90 to 180 Days _ nara FETMINAKON ehh Petia Ti ata! 1,00 & 7.01 _Other: See Notes__ Notes: 385° 7.01 are unclassified penalties for which the Chief of Police must determine the Selig pot cf the panally of fe Viol fing Tomine oficer setae Sana Lf James ei Advocate: a hy DateREPORT OF DISCIPLINSRY INFRACTION Comptels in duplicate, wien report required ly Hartford Potice Order H-2 "Disciplinary Procedure Section 1Y SECTION I: Nome of Employee: Matthew Secore Rank/Title: Officer PSA, OR DUREAU: csp Distsiol Division: Southeast Date of Infractiow: May 06, 2007 Time «il Tetraction: 0100 Location of Infuction: $0 Jennings Road Hertford, CT SECTION 2; fnBaction Charged: Violation of HPD Code uf Conduct: Aaticle Section ‘Tite ot Desctiption of Offense 4 i 100 Conduct unbecoming am officer 2 VEL 7.01 Intcational, unnecessary, and excessive ase of force. ‘Explain Inlraction(s) In Petal (List witnesses if any) Reference LAD #97047 “To the best of your knowleilge is this a secend or subsequent alTense us to any of the cove sections eile: (Hf yes, specify): No Immediate corrsetive action Laken if any: (IT any of the infractions vall for an oral reprimand ties been issued, siate und attach a copy) Rabat V. Klin Aud Date: nme Submitted by Sieepy Sigaatwee: _ HRD FORM. F90 Revived £1104Hartford Police Department Command Review Worksheet PD a, JAD OMIT (Please specity CHR # 14D #, SIR) Document Deseriptions ["] sin TAD: Chip Form [_Jothee: Supervisory Review: Investigation complete and realy for comugane seview. __ Draft Review Only: Bouward for Review Robert Klin _.wye0T Sergeant Pate Command Review: | conus with Spt Blin’ Stings. . Pat Cree Fant, Goong p07 Lieutenant Date Forward: >< Return: Command Review:NA. Forwerd:___ Return: Due Dates Command Review:A. Rorwrard: Return Due Date ft . Depuly Chief Date Cojumand Reviews =" Zap wt ¥Z urort _ J a Forward: <7 Return: Tue Date: fd Final Command Review: / Return: Duc Date: fd Dany) K, Roberts & Pe Accepted: Z Chief of Police Bate ‘Attach this Worksheet t0 all SIRS and viher completed stajf work forwarded up the chen of comnersd® Command Review Worksheat Revised 11/2006HARTFORD POLICE DEPARTMEN INVESTIGATIVE REPORT INFERNAL AFFAERS DIVISION Date: Jue 8, 2007 LAD # 07-047 ‘This roport was prepared by Sergeant Robt Klin, an investigator assigeed te the Taternat Affairs Division, under the direct supervisiAn of Lieutenant Paul J. Cicsinski, Commander of the Inlernal Affairs Division, DATE OV INCIDENT: May 6, 2007 ‘TIME OF INCLDENT: 0186 hours LOCATION OF INCIDENT: 50 Jennings Road COMPLAINANT: Ruben Perez OFFICER ACCUSED: Glficer Matthew Secare ALLEGATION Excessive MoreeaL A. COMPL €. INVESTIGATIVE, INVESTIGATIVE FLAN LAD. 407-047 Ruben Porez VATE: June #2007 Ruben Perez Citizen Complaint Ruben Peroz Taped Tlervicw - REVIEWED REPORTS Officer Willian: Labetle-Boucher Hartford Police Case Incident Report #07-18453 Sergeant Froy Goren. Hartiord Police Case Incident Report #07-18477 Detvstive Clandetis Kesitiski Hartford Police Supplemental Ropott #07-18477 Hartlocd Police }epartment Unusital Oceusrence Report Hartford Police Department Voluntary Statement form Artest Warrant Applivation 107-1847 “URS Officer Rafae? Mena Taped Laterview Officer Miran Otero Taped laterview Matron Ruthis Prude Taped Interview Ad Bl Bz BS Bed BoSergeant Densil Sarma Taped lnterview Officer John Szowseyk ‘Taped Interview Officer Matthew Secore “Taped Interview Officer Miguel Matdunado Tapod Interview Officer Ole Dowd Teped Interview Oliver Brinn Bishop ‘Teped Interview Officer Aaron Beisyert Taped Interview Officer Rober! Iovanna “Taped Interview Officer Jeffrey Simone Taped interview ‘Licutonant James Bernier Taped Interview Officer William Labelle Pouicher Taped Inturviews . OTHER ACHIONS: Photo Array Hartford Police Department Criminal (History (Ruben Peres) Hartford Police Department Field Arrest Form (Ruben Pere} Hartford Police Department Booking Photo (Ruben Perez} Hartford Police Department Daily Rell from May 5, 2007 15 photographs of Ruben Perez Di D2 D3 Da Ds D6CITY OF HARTFORD TO: Tivutouant Paul J, Ciesinski Commander, fptemnal Affairs Division FROM: Sergeant R. 1 Klin B6? Investigating Aderan] Affairs Division DATE: Tune 8, 2607 SUBJECT: IAD Case Number #07-147 1. On May 6, 2007, the Harttord Police Department received a Citizen Complaint fein Ruben, Perez, Mr, Perez's complaint stemmed from 2 May 5, 2007 criminal arrest in which he was charged with Asvault 3" (53a-Gt) and Disorderly Conduct ($3182). The arresting ollicor was Offices Willian Labefle Boucher. Mx. Serer contends that while in booking, Officar Matthew Secore choked and puached bim. Officer Seeore’s brother, Slade Secore, was the victim in Mr. Porez’s arrest. After he was released, Mr. Peres filed his complaint at the front dock, 2. On May 6, 2007, af 0430 hours, J was called in to assume the investigation, Mr. Pere alleged that Officer Secore came into booking, in civitian attive, and assaulted him. He believes the assault was in retaliation over Officer Secere’s brother gotting beaten. Mr. Pere? denied being invalved in the assantt of Slade Sevore. 3. On May 6, 2007, [-teviewed Har¥ord Police Depurtinont case incident report #07-18453. Officer William Labelle-Boucher completed the report. According to the repost, Mr, Perez?s car was parked in the vear of 17 Bast Elliot! Street, As ho was not a tesidenl of the complex, Mu Peres lacked the proper permit to park in the lot Whiley’s Towing had a connact with the propeity manager to tow illegally parked cara, Slade Secote, a tow truck driver for Whitey's was in thu process of lowing Mr. Pevez’s cer when Mr. Perez came out Afler 2 vorbul dispute, Me. Pesex agreed to get $88.00 to pay tor the tow. Ax he Tell to get the money, several individuals that were with Mr. Perez began to assauil Mr. Sosore, Me. Perex Secor. He also denied knowing the individuals that attacked Mr. denied ever assaulting Mr, Se Ms, Secore stated he bogan towing Mr. Perez’s car when he came out, ‘they got into a vorbal dispute over the tow and the price of it, Mir. Secore stated while he was arguing with Me Perez. multiple people begat to atlack him. Mr, Secore could not identify aay of his attackers, bit deseribod his main attacker as a Hispanic male, uid 20's, approximately 6°0", 240 Ths., wearing 2 white tee shitl with a stop sign on it Mr, Secore thinks he was struck with z golf club hut was unsure and a golf club was not recovered al the sone,Richord Loegeman, another tw tuck driver for Whitey’s, came lo Mir, Secore’s aid, He too was assaulted. Mr. Hoegoman positively identified Mr. Porez as ono of My. Secore’s attackers. Ruben Perez wes taken into crstody and charged with Assadlt 3%, 530-61, and Disorderly Conduct, 530-182. He was uanspotted to booking hy the patrol wagon, Ms, Secore suffered chvious facial injuries and wax transported f Harifrd Hospital for treatment Inckuded in tho investigative pla labeled Bel is a copy of the Prosecntor’s Report, Refer to Officer Tabclle-Boucher's ropor, {or complete details, On May 6, 2007, Sergennt Winston Brooks and T conducted 2 taped interview with Ruben Perez, ‘The intorview was conducted at Llariford Police Headquarters within the Internat Affnits Division, The following ig a summary of Mr. Perez's interview: Mr. Pores stated he was involved in an incident wilh Whitey's towing ai 17 Hast Filiod. He was there for a parly when he saw his vehicle getting towed. The police asked bim if it was this car that was being towed. Mr. Perey. said # Was. Onc of the tow truck drivers identified hhitn as being mvolved in the assanlt, As a resull, he was arested aud transported to booking. ‘Al hooking, he was processed by polive. Ma. Perez described the officers «9 professional. Ho was placed it the large holding celf, Whoa the State Marshals antived to transport prisoners to the courthouse, Mr. Porez was loft at booking ag it was anticipated that he would post boad that night. Mr. Perez was the only male in booking and he was unsure if there wore any fondle prisoncrs, Shortly thereafter, an annemed/unidentified uniformed Spanish officer took him out of the main holding cell and brought him to the reat cellblock. This officer was Inter identified as Officer Rafael Mena. Mr. Perez. was informed there was an officer those that wanted to talk fo him about whal happened. Me. Perey. was approached by a white mal, in civilian attire, that he assumed to be the police oflicer that requested to speak to hina, Le wever identified himsetl as a police officer. Mr. Petez.dlid not recognize this individual, ‘This individual, lator identified as Oflicet Malthow Secory, told Mr. Pores that the petson ia the hospital from the assaull on Last Fliot Sireet was his brother-in-law Mr, Peres was standing outside of one of the smnalfer back cells, the door was open. Officer Secore started sirtugling Mr. Perez with hic xight hand by his néck, He forced him into the ‘open cell and pushed hitn into the wall. Officer Secore began questioning Mr. Perez about soine guy that was woating a white shirt with a red slop siga on il, Officer Secote continued to slrenglo Mr. Poroz in such a inenner that prevented him from speaking. After about a hal? ‘a minnte, Officer Secore loosened his grip ane! allowed Mr. Porc to talk, Mr, Yercz gave his version of what ocourred as he gave ta the arresting officer. ARer Mr. Perez stopped speaking, Officer Seeore punched lim, once, with a closed fist, on iis tefl check. Officer Sevore feft and Mr, Perey remained Incked away in the back cull‘When asked, Mr. Porez slated that he che nothing to warrant Officer Socore’s reaction. He war not aggressive; in fact, Offiger Sccore wes the aggressor in the incident, Mr. Vere never vyelled for acsistance as he was in total shock ahout whal happened, Mr. Perez stated the Officer Mena stood hy while Officer Secore choked and puched lain Olficor Mena saw Officer Secore grab him by the neck, This office: also told Mr, Perey iT he knew anything, he shonld tell the police, Mr, Perez, stated there were ne other prisoners or officers in the area that may have witnessed what took plicx: ‘When asked, Mr. Perez saill Officer Mena did not intervene whun Officer Socore assaulted him, Le said Officer Mena had 2 clear and unobstructed view of Officer Secore punching him. He was just oulside fhe cefl that Mr, Perez and Officor Seoors were jn. Mr Perez never requested to speak to 4 supervisor nor did he request medical attention. He never mentioned the ussault to anyone. Mr. Perea did speak to someone about his bond as the amount was raised fiom $2500.00 lo $25,000.00. He wes not fold why it was increased. Lameiliately after his release from booking, Mr. Perey. spoke to the frout desk sergeant about what happened. Phe CD containing the interview is secured within the completed case fife and anaintained in the Internal A ftaits Division communder’s office. On May 6, 2007, at about 0555 haus, , Sergeant Robert Klin prepared » photo array comtaming nine (9) photographs of Hurtlord Police Officers with similar physical charactezistics. A photograph of Officce Secore was inckuded in the photo array, During the interview with Mr. Percz, it was requested that he view the photo array. Mr, Perez agreed to view the photo aay. He immediately pointed out Officer Secore as the police officer that ponched and choked kim, Mx, Perez.was instructed to sigrt and date on the photo array’ the picture he believed to be Officer Secore. Incladed in the investigative’ plan labeled enclosare D-{ is a copy of the plato artay. 6. On May 6, 2007, al abowt 0610 hours, Ruben Perez, gave a voluntary stetoiont, as to what cosumed. ‘the statement wag dene on a HPD foun 9, @ Hartford Police Department Votuntary Statement fora, Inchded in the investigative plan labeled enclosure 1-5 isa copy of the Mariferd Police Deparuneat Voluntary Statement form. 7. Mr, Perex complained of pain to the Toft side of hie faze. I porsonally observed his injuries His left check vas swollen and red. He hud » small |aceration in the same area and bruising ‘on the inside of bis mouth along the upper tecth, Mr. Pevez also had red marks on his neck. His injures seomod consistent with being sirmgled and ponched. Mr. Porez Hectined medical altontion stating he would sock i on tis own,& On May 6, 2007, I reviewed Hartford Police Department case incident report #97-18477, Sergeant Tray Gordon corupleted the report. fn his report, Serzcant Gordon documerted Mr. Porez's complaint, Sergeant Gordon was the Executive Officer that evening, Afler taking Mr, Perey’s verbal complaint, Sctgeaat Gordon notified the watch Commander, Licuteaant James Bernice in turn, Liewtonant Bemier notified tutornal Affairs, Sergeant Gordon wrote that he observed Mr. Perez” jaw, it was swollen, Crime Scene Division Detcotive Claudetic Kosinski was called in to photograph Mr, Perez's injuries, She took 13 photographs of Mx. Peres and his specific injuries. ‘The injuries inchided swelling to the teft side of the face of the jaw line, a small laceration in the same area, and bruising ow Ute inside of the mouth along the upper teeth. The photographs were takou at approximately 0515 hours Sergeant Cordon documented the incident via a Hartford Potice Department Unusuat Occurence Roport, Limited Distibution. Lieutenant Bernier reviewed the report. Tnsinded in the investigative plan labcled B-2 is a copy of Sergeant Trey Goxdon’s report Bnclosure B-3 is a copy of Detective Claudetic Kosinski’s supplemental repost. Frclosure Bed is a copy of Sergeunt Gerdon’s Hartford Police Department Umisual Ocousrence Report. Enclosure B-6 is thirleca photographs taken of Mr, Perez, Ploase vefer to these reports for complete details 9% On May 6, 2007, T reviewed the Hartford Potice criminal history of Ruben Perez. This was bis first arrest, Tncludded in the investigative plan labeled enclosure D-2 is a copy of Ruben Purz’s IPD criminal hisiory aad enclosure 33, a copy. of Ruben Porez’s Field Arrest Form from May 5, 2007, 10, On May 6, 2007, 1 reviowod Rubén Porez’s bouking photoyraph from May §, 2007. 1 did not observe any injury of irregntarity. Licluced in the investigative plan labeled vaclosure D-4 is the booking photograph of Ruben Perez. 11. On May 6, 2007, I reviewed the-Lartford Police Duily Roll for May 5, 2007. The following oificens were assigned io the Velention Wivision: Sergeant Deusil Samude, Officer Rafael Mena, Officer Ichn Sxewezyk, Officer Hiram Otero, and Matton Kuthis Prude, Inclided in the mnvestigative plan labeled enclosure D-5 is a copy of the Haxllord Police Departinent Daily Rall froma May 5, 2007. 12, On May 6, 2007, Sergeant Winston Brocks and T conducted a taped interview with Matron Ruthis Pride. The imerview was conducted al Hartford Police Headquarters within the Internal Affuirs Division, The following is a summary of Matron Pruce’s interview Motron Prade was the matron on duly the aighl of May 5, 2007. She was working overtinte as her regular assignment is squad A, Matron Pride remembered when Officer Matthew13. Gecore caine in. Upon entering booking, Mfficer Svore went up to fhe control center and said he was there because they arrested a gny that attacked his brother, Matron Pride described him ag being agtated and upsct, Matron Pate looked up the prisoners vame on the computer and walleed away. She left because she bad a female prisower to tend Lo. When asked, Matron Prude said she did not witness any of the casounter between Offieer Secore and Ruben Perea. She does not know who assisted Offlesr Secore with Mr. Perez, ‘Matron Prade slalod she never saw Officer Score punch, grab, or choke Mr. Perez, Matron Prude never lieard any type of struggle or commotion “Phe CD containing the interview is szcured within the completed cuse Lile and maintained in the Inicrual Affaits Division commenden’ office. Gn May 6, 2007, Sergeant Winston Brooks and | coniucted a tapert interview with Officer Rafacl Mena The interview was conducted at Hartiord Police Headquarters within the Intornal Affiire Division. The following is a summery of Officer Mena’s interview: Officer Mena was working overtime in booking the night of May 5, 2007. His segular acsigaiment ia booking is squad A. Officer Mona stated Officer Malthew Sccure cane into booking and spoke to Sergeant Densi] Semuda regarding his brother being assaulted. Ta his ‘opinion, Otlicor Secore did not Jonk upset, Officer Sccore wanted te talk fo the one individual that was arrested for the assault, Ruben Perez, 60 he could get the nares of the other penple involved! in Uns incident, Officer Mena did not lmow if Officer Secore was on duty or off duty; he was decssed in civilian attire Officer Sccore went to the main holding cell und someone opened it, lelling Mr. Perer. out Offices Meaa said he did not opea the main holding cell nor does he know who cli. Offieer Sccore end Mr, Perez went to the rear cellblock and began talking. Officer Mena aad some of the other booking staff were in and around the door by the Matron’s acca minding thei owt business. Cifficer Mena heard Officer Secore got loud. He walked in tho back, locked the prisoner in the cell, and walket out When asked, Officer Mena stated he never witnessed any physical altercation between Officer Secore and Mr, Perer. He never saw Officer Socore grab Me, Perez by the neck or punch him, Wihon Officer Secore lel, Mc. Peres never complained of any type of physical ahercation borween him and Officer Secore. Olficer Mena never noticed say injury to Mr. Peres, as he did not book Mr. Percz. “When asked if he knew of about any type of asautt involving Officer Sccore and Mr, Perez, afier cither one of them left bucking, Officer Mena said no. He first found out about the incident between Officer Secore and Mr. Posez when Sergeami Sammda told bim Mr. Perez, vas making a complaint against OfBear Secore. When asked, OfGeer Mena rcimomberal speaking to Lieutenant James Bamict early that motaiag. When presented with ar umisual cevurrence reper, at official dlepastsucut record,14. Sergeant Gorden wrote regarding the incident that hat Officer Mena physically semoving Officer Secore after he saw him grab Mr, Perey. by the throut, Olicer Mena now stated that fhe grabbed Olficer Sccore amd yuiiled him ont. Oflicor Mena suid be siw Officer Secare grab Mr. Perez by the shirt. Officet Mena pulled Officor Secore away end locked Ma, Bere in the ecll. When askod, Officer Mont said he never saw Officer Secore drow a punch and strike Mr. Perez, ‘Who he grabbed Officer Secor, Officer Mena never said anything to him, Officer Secore remained sitent as weld When asked, Officer Mona stated be never volified his supervisor, Sergeant Santude about what he saw take place, Officer Mona did fee! that what Officer Secore did was inappropriate. Olficcr Mena [elt that when he pulled Ollicer Seeore ont of the cell, he prevented the situalion from escalating; ths, he did not feet the need to notify a supervisor as he stopped the incident. Olfiecr Mews said he was Ike only officer that knew something happened between Ollicer Secore and Mir. Perez due to bis geographical proximity t the sear ceilblock. ‘The CI containing the interview is secured within the completed case. file and maintained im. the Internal Affairs Division commanders” office. On May 7, 2007, Sergeant Winston Brooks aad J conducted a taped interview with Officer Hinam Ora, The interview was conducted al Hartford Police Hoadquarters within the Inlomal Affairs Division. The following is a summary of Oflicer Otero’s interview: Office Otero was working the 1800-0200 shift on May 5, 2007, He was on overtime Officer Otoso said booking was busy that evening. He remembered when Officer Mathow Severe oame into booking, but was uusme of the time frame. Olficor Otere did not tet him in, He diul not kaow why he was there, as he nover spoke to hin. When asked, Officer Otero said Officer Secore'was wewing civitign clothing. He did aot Kenoww if was on or off duty, Afler Officer Secore spoke to Sergedat Densil Samudla, the prisoner, Ruben Perez, was taken out of the mais cel! and walked towards the back. Oflicer Rafael Mena and Officer Sccore waiked Mr, Peres. to the back, Through convessation that Officér Otero overlicard, he betioved that Offiver Secore was trying to got information on who beat up his brother. Officer Secoro mentioned that his brother was heat ap on Wethersfield Avenue wilh a golf club. “When asked, Offices Otero stated he did rot see anything that happened ia the area near the back cells, Ho was more towards the front of booking, next to the Fingerprinting room, At some point he heard Officer Secore yell, “Give me the names of who beat up my brother!” Officer Mena then said something to the extent of “That's it.” Officer Otero never saw at altsrcation happen. Officer Secore ended up leaving booking and Mi. Perex stayed ia the back call. «Officer Otero saw Mr, Tere2 shortly thereafter amd spoke to him about his bond being saised. Mr. Porex never spoke to Officer Otero shout what transpired between him and Officer Secore, however, he was weeping. Officer Otero never saw any signs of vajury to Mr. Peter. Noither Ollicer Mena nor Officer Secore spoke of being aswanitted by Mr. Perez not did thoy speak of any improprieties that occurred in the back cell area, When asked, Officer Otero did nol know why Mr. Potez’s bond was raised. He did not raise it, as he is not authorized to. Oilicer Otero described Mr. Pesce as being a regulur prisoner, nothing out of the ordinary. Officer Otero doscribed Officer Secore as being apsel when he came into hooking, When asked, Olficer Otero sid he did net bolieve thal Olliver Secore was under the influence of alcobol and/or drugs “The CD containing the inlerview is secured within the completed case file and rnaintained in the Thicena) Affeiss Division commandess) office. On May 7, 2007, Seegeant Winston Brooks and I vonducted a taped interview witl: Sergeant Pensil Samuda, ‘The interview was comducted at Hartford Police Headquarters within the Taternal Atlaiss Division, The following is a summery of Scigeant Samuda’s interview: Sergeant Densil Samuda was the supervisor in charge of hooking the nigial of May 5, 2007. ft wes busy thet evening, As the supervisor, he had ne involvement with Rubon Pores, other than booking him, He nover saw if Mr, Perea liad avy injury cithor before or after his encounter with Officer Matthew Secore. Sorgeant Sernuda did not somember which door Officer Secore eatne in. Since he was at the “helm,” he probably let him in, Cficer Seeore was in plainelothes and Scigeunt Sanda did not know if he wax on or off duty. Sergeant Santuda did not notice anything anusual with his denoanor When asked, Sergeant Samuda stated Oflicer Secore was very potite when he explained bina that either a fiiend of fam‘ly member was jmped while towing a vehicle and was in the hospital in setious condition. Cfficer Score wanted to interview the person iavolved to get some aames, Sergeant Samuda saw°nothing unusual with is request, Ie belioved thal Officer Sevore wats acting as a police officer. ile did not appear to be under dhe influsnee of any liquar ancor drug. Sergeant Samuda said that uniformed personnel, Officer Rafael Mena and Officer Hiram Otero, were in the area when Ms. Pesez was rotnoved from the back cell, He did not know wha opencd the main cell door for Officer Sccore and why Mr. Perez was Laken to the buck et] area, Wher asked, Sergeant Samuda said he naver oaw what happened in the area of the back cells wher Ms, Peron wes brought, From his vantaye point at the sergeant’s desk, he could not soe the back coll area. Sergcant Samuda did nol know if any uniformed personnel were close enough to have witnessed what happened. Sergeant Samuda never saw a physical altercation helween Officer Secore and Mr, Perez nor tlic he hear any Lype of commotion beeween the16. two, Sergeant Samuda never saw Officer Secare strike, assault, or kick Mr. Perez. He never sans Me. Peroz ever make any attempt lo burt any police offiecr Aller Olficer Secere finished with Mr. Perez, he briefly spoke to Sergeant Samuda. Le asked him if he got any names to which Olficer Secore replied “yes,” the name “Pito.” Sergeant Sanmda dil not revall who Jet him out off booking and whieh door he exited through When asked, Sorgeant Sauda sliled none of his booking stuf ever notified him zbout any possible police misconduct that may have coourred that evening. Mr. Perez never reqnested any modical atlention nox dict he roqueat to speak to a supervisor, Sergeant Samcda found out about Mr. Perez’s complaint rom the front desk sergeant, Sergeant ‘Troy Gurdon, When auked, Sergeant Saniuda said he osiginal¥y set the bond anil fator raisod it, Ife did so. only afer he was teld that the victim was in (he hospital in scrious condition. Sergeant Samada fell due to the severity of Ihe crime, a higher bond would have beca amore appropriate. ‘The CD containing the interview is secured within the completed case file and maintained in the Internat Affairs Division commanders’ office. ‘On May 7, 2007, Sergeant Winston Brooks and T conducted a taped interview with Officer Tol Szowezyk. ‘Tho interview was conducted at ifartford Police Lleadquartens within the Intenral Aflairs Division. The following iy a aumunary of Officer Szeweryk’s interview: Oblicor Svewexyk was regularly. acsigned lo booking on C squad. Le was working on May 5, 2007. He remembered when Ruben Porez entered booking. (le described him as uneventful Ollicer Szewoxyk did not remember photographing Mr. Perez, but he did fingerprint hin, Officer Szewexyk did not remember how 'O Micer Matthew Scvors gol infout of booking and who let him invout. He tought he.got in vie the door tha: leads out dircotly inte the station. ‘He saw Officer Secore out of unifoyn and did not know if he was on or off duty. He described Oilicer Secore as “not bappy.” Officer Szewdayk did not believe Utlicer Sacore te: ouader the influence of any intoxicating Tiquoi or crag, ‘When asked, Officer Szeweryk said thet Officer Scoore asked fur the prisoner that came in with assault charges that assualted his brother, Ollicer Sxewe2yk was nasnre who opened the main holding cel! door for Officer Seeore, Officer Szewezyk never went fo the area where the back cells ate. When asked, Officer Szewezyk sail he never saw whal happened hetween Oilicer Secore ad Mr. Perez, He believes thal Ollie Mena accompanied bots Ollicer Secore and Me. Perez to the back coll area, Olficot Szewezyk stoted he never heard en altercation but heard Officer Secure asking Mr. Perez about the other individual involved iu bis brother's assaultem 19. When asked, Officer Szowexyk said he never sew Offiver Secore strike, assanlt, or ki Perer, ble never suv Ms, Perez assault, strike, or Kick any police officer. Mr. Perez never requested aay mudicel attention nor did he request to apeak to « supervisor, Officer Svewczyk never saw any injury fo Mr. Perez upon his admittance to bookiag or upon his release. Tre CP containing the interview is scoured within the completed case file and niaintained 3m the Yaternial Affairs Division commenters’ office. On May 7, 2007, Sergeant Winston Brooke and I vondocied a taped interview with Officer Matthew Sczore. ‘Ths interview was conducted at Hartiord Police Headquarters withia the Internal Affairs Division, ‘The folowing is a summary of Offices Seoore’s interview. Officer Mallhew Secore was read hig Miranda Rights and refused Lo answer any questions. the CD containing the interview is sveured within the completed case file and maintained int the Internat Afiairs Division commanders’ office, Ou May 8, 2007, | completed an Aucst Warrant Application for Officer Matthew Secore charging him with Assault 3, 53-G?. Based on the facts and citcumstances of the case, probable cause czisted for an arest. The affidavit wan reviewed by State’s Attomey Tames Thomas aud signed by Judge John Moleahy Jr. Officer Socore tarned himself itt on May 8, 2007, at about 2630 bons. He was arrested, processed, and released om a written promise tu appear with a court date of May 18, 2007, Tnchided in the investigative plan labeled enclosure HAG is a copy of the Arvest Warrant Applieation. On May: 16, 2007, Sergeant Winston Brooks aad | conducied a taped inter view with Offivor Miguel Maldonado, HARTBLAT dispatch summary records showed bim on soone at 17 Lasi Elliott Sweet. The interview was conducted at [artferd Police Heudeyaarters within the Jnvemnal Affairs Division. The following is a summary of Officer Maldonado’s interviow: Officer Makdonade was in Unit #22, 1700-0300 hours, his regular assignment. He was at 22 Elliott Strect on az unrelated call when the dispatch came in for 17 Hast Eliott Street. Aftor he clourcd the Elliott Steovt calf, he sesponded lo 17 Rast Eliiott Strect just in case the police needed more help. About 20-30 minutes had passed since the original dispatch and Officer ‘Maldonado’s aurival om scone at 17 Bust Liliott Street Upon antiving on weene, Officer Maklonado observed an ambalasive with © persou in if several toww tracks, and a party in the rear of one of the entisers awaiting sransport Whea asked, Officer Maldonado stated be never paiticipatud in amy aspect of the investigation. He nover investigated, artestod, or iletained anyone, Officer Muldonado never sasy Offiect Matthew Secure on scene, Officer Maldonado sever votified Officer Secure as 920. 2 to whut ocoucrod that evening, Le never brad ony interaction with Rugen Peter, Offices Matdonado diet net write any report roarding this incident The CD containing the inersiew is secured within the completed ease file and maintained in the biteynal Affairs Division commanders’ offive On May 21, 2007, Servant Winston Brooks ond T conducted a taped inturviow with Officer Oto Dowd. HARTBEAL dispateh sunniary records showed him on scene at 1’) Rast Blbiott Street. ‘The infervicw was conducted at Hartford Police Headquarters within the faternal ‘Affairs Division, [he following is a summary of Officer Dowd’s interview: On May 5, 2007, Offices Dowd was assigned to Unit #92, ihe prisoner transporl wagon, along with Ollicer Bilan Rishap. Ue responded to 17 Rast DHiott Steet Officer Dowd described the scene as “mass confusion.” Numerous people and tow tracks were there. Officer Liowd maintoined scene salcty and helped calmly disperse the large crowed. ‘when ssked, Officer Dowd stated he did not participate in the investigation, He transported a prisoner Lo booking from that address. Officer Dowd wrote no report of the incident, Officer Dowd did not see Officer Matthew Secore on scone, Ie never valled or notified bint as le what occurred, When asked, Officer Dowd stated he dict not know Ruben Peter or Slade Secore, the CD containing the interview is secured within the completed case [ile and maintained in the Internst Affairs Division commanders’ office. On May 21, 2007, Sergeant Winston Brooks and I conducted a taped interview with Oilicer Brian Bishop. HARYBEAT dispateh summary records showed him on scotic at 17 Hast Elliot Street. ‘The interview was conducted at Ulartford Police Headquarters within the intemai Affairs Division. ‘The following is a summary of Officcr Bishop’s interview: OWicor Bishop was asdigned to Unit #92, tho prisoner transport wagon along with Osficer Otc Dowd, on May 5, 2007. He arrived on scene at 17 Hast Filiott Strect as the incident was breaking up. Officer Bishop helped cleur the scone as Lhe siiuation was akeady breaking, up. Olficer Bishop stated thére was a large geoup of people involved, yetling and screanting al each other, When asked, Officer Bishop slated he did not participate in the investigation, He uausporled an individual to booking. Officer Bishop dic not dooument anylhing. When asked, Officer Bishan said He did not see Officer Matthew Secore on secae. Officer Bishop did call Olficei Secore te inform hire that his brorher bad been assaulted and as a It, uansported tp Hariford ospital. Olficcr Bistop did this as a conrtesy to Officer Socore due 19 his brolier being iavolved aud hospitalized Officer Sevore did ask Officer 1022. 23. Bishop if an amest had been made and who Ure hooking sergeant was, Officer Bishop thought he asked who the booking sergeant was 50 he coufd ascertain information about the bond and if Bie suspect accused of assanfting his brother bad a chauce of being released on a written prousise te appear When asked, Olfiver Bishop described Ofliver Secore as being culm and not too surprised about whet happoned, Oilicer Sevore never mentioned going to hooking and trymg, to investigate what bappenod, ‘The CD containing the dterview is secured within the vorrpieted case file and maintained in the Intemal Aliairs Division commumuters’ office. Gn tune 1, 2007, Sergeant Winston Brooks and {conducted a taped interview with Officer Aacon Boisvert, HARTBEAL dispatch suntmasy rovords showed him on scene at 17 Bast Rifiott Street, The interview was conductat at Hartford Police leadquurters within the Intomal Affairs Division. The following is a snnmary of Officer Ttoisvert’s interview: Officer Boisvert was dispatched to 17 Baal Elfiott Sweet on the report of large fight. Ae “was not the Ieadfinvesligating officer, Officer Roisverl described Ure soune as chaotic, » Tot of jpoople were involved. Offiser Boisveri, slong with another officer, checked a dwelling where one of the suspects was sean running, lle did not locate anyone. When asked, Officer Hoisvert said he did not participate in the investigation and/or arrest/delention of any person, Ele did not write a report, Officer Boiavert never saw Officer Secore on scene. He never notified big as te what happened ‘he CD containing the interview is severed within the completed case Lile nnd maintained in the Intemnal Affairs Division commanders’ office. On Jane 3, 2007, Sergeant Winston Tirooks and [ conductod a taped interview with Officer Robert Tovanua, AR TBEAT dispatch simmary records showed him on scene at 17 Last Eliott Street. The interview was conducted at Ulartord Police Headquarters within the Intecnal Affairs Division. Tho following is a seemery of Officer lovanna’s interview: Officcr fovanna reineabered the call for service at 17 Fast Eliot Steet. He was nol de Jead or investigating officer. Officer Tovanna did assist Officer Willfam LebelieTSouchier ia the identification andl appechension of Ruben Perez, who was identilicd by the visti as one of his utiackers, Officer [vane described the sveae as chants, Whoo asked, Officer lovanna slated he aever sew Officer Secore on scene nor did he call anc votify hin of whal Lappened MWThe CD containing the interview is secured within the completed case file and maintained in the Ilennal Affairs Division commanders’ office. On June §, 2007, Secgeant Winston Brooks and J conducted! a taped interview with Officer Teflrey Simone. HARTREAT dispatch summary records showed him on scene at 17 East Hott Street. ‘The inlerview was conducted al Hartlord Police (eacquarters within the Infernal affairs Division. The following is a summary of Officer Simone's interview: Olticer Sintone described the scone at £7 Hast Pifioit Stroct as boing in disarray. He had ne particular role in the ineident other than maintaining the scene and crowd control. Officer Sinvone was nol ihe investigating officer, He did not waite a report, When asked, Officer Simone stated he did not pasticipate in the investigation and/or arresi/delention of any individual on scone. Officer Simone never saw Officer Secore ul the sven ner did he notify him shout what happened. The CH containing the inlerviow is secured within the completed case file and maintained in the Tntemal Affbirs Division commanders’ office 25. On June 5, 2007, Sergeant Winston Brooks and I conducted a taped interview with Fieutenant Jemes Bernier, ‘The interviow was conducted at Hartlord Police Meadquarters within the Internal Affairs Division. ‘Ihe following is a summaty of Lieutenant Bemicr’s interview: Licatepant Bemier was the headquarters commander the night of the incident in question. ‘Whan asked, Lioutenant Bernicr atated he took part, along with Sergeant Tray Gordon, in wniting the Unusual Occurronte Report. Upon its completion, Lieulenant Bemaicr soviewed it and docmed it 10 be mn accurate depiction of the events that evening, as told to him When ackod, Licatenant Bemier said Officer Rafael Mena said to bim that he observed Officer Senate grah-Mr. Perez by the throal. Furthermore, Officer Mena tofd fim he pulled Officer Scoore off of Mr. Perey. and had him leave booking. Basedl on Officer Mena’s admissions to hin, Lieutenant Temier felt that Officer Mena was aware that Oflicet Secore assaulted Mr, Porez in booking, ‘The CP containing the interview is secured within the completed case file oud maintained in the Tntemmal Aas Division commandes’ office 26, On Inne 5, 2007, Sergsial Winston Brooks aud i conducted « Laped interview with Officer ‘Williarn Labolte-Boncher. ‘The iuterviow was conducted at Llartford Police Heaulquurlers within the laternal Affuirs Divisioa, The following is a summary of Officer Labelle Boucher's interview20. Officer Labelle-Boucher was Me investigating officer at 17 Last V4liolt Street on May 5, 2007. He described the scone as extremely chaotic. Besed on the facts and circumstances, Officer } abelle-Boucher established probable cnuse to place Ruben Peres under aarest. Mr. Perez. was positively identitied by a witness as one of Slade Secove's attackers. When asked, Officer fabelle- Boucher statod he never saw Officer Matthew Sceore on scene nor did he cver notify bim a6 to what transpired. The CD conlaining the interview is secured within the completed case file and maintained in tho Litemal Affaire Division commanders’ office. Luvestigative Summary and Findings ‘Da May 6, 2007, the Hertford Potice Department rovelved a Citizen Complaint fiom Ruben, Peres. Mr. Perez's cornplaint stemmed from a May 5, 2007 ctispinal arrest in which he was charged with Asset 3"! (53a-61) and Disurderly Conduct (832-182), Mr. Porez contends that while in booking, Officer Matlhew Secore choked and punched bim. Officer Secore’s brother, Slade Secore, was the vielim ir Mr. Porca’s arrest. (On May 6, 2007, Officer William Labelle-Boucher arrested Mr, eres for Assaull 3rch and Disorderly Conduct. Mr. Perez claimed that Officer Matthew Scere choked and punched him while in booking. Oiffear Secore was in plain clothes, off duly, at the ime, The detention division does not have any video cameras that might have recorded this incident. Based on the facts and cireumstances of this case, the preponderance of evidence shows that Offer Secore did assault Mr. Perez. Officer Secore was arrostcd via arrest watrant on May 8, 2007. Ollicer Secor did not save any slateraent.as to what occurred. Officer Sccote entered booking on May 6, 2007, He was in plain clothes and according to HARTBEAT dispatch summary was nol werking, Officer Secure had no legitimate reason to Ye in booking, Phat is no: his regular assignment; he has a uniformed walking beat on Franklin Avenue. Officer Secore wes let into booking, by the shill supervisor, Sergeant Densil Sammula. Scrgcant Sarnuda admitted Officer Secore in based on the premise that he world jterview Mr Verez rogardings the assault of his brother Siade Svcore. Sergeant Sarmada holieved that Oflicer Secore was acting inthis capacity as a police officer My. Perez was removed from the mai holding cell and brought to tae rear holding cells. Thooe cells are in the soulhwest comer of booking. Mr, Perez. was the only male prisoner ia booking al the time. There was vo reason to bring, him to the Dack cells. Lf Officer Secore wanted to juiterview him and was concerned ever confidentiality issues, he had no worry, as ‘Mr, Perez was the sole prisonor in the main cet 13Me. Perea was brought to the back cells and choked and punched by Officer Secors, Ms. Perez never offered any resistance nor did he atlermpt to altack or escape from Officer Secore. Mr. Perez was simick for no apparent reason. T personally viewed Mr. Perez's houking photo, which was taken upon bis admission into detention, ‘The photo was taken prior to his encounter wilh Olfivar Seco. His booking phote showed no injury to his face, After his release fiom booking, Mr. Persz filed a complaint at the front desk. He had prominent injuries thal wore photographed by Detective Claudette Kosiuski of the Hartford Police Ciime Scone Division, I porsovally observed his injuries, Lis lefl cheek was swotlen and geil. He had a small lacoration in the same area and bitising on the inside of his mouth along, the upper teeth. Mr. Perez also had red marks on his neck. ‘The marks and bruises wore obvious, clear, and prominuat ia the photographs. His injuries were consistent with being choked and punched. Photographie evidence showed that Mr. Peroz suffered these injuries awhile he was incarcerated, in Fartlard Police custody, at the detention division, Officer Seoore had no legitimate reason to use force on Mr. Perce, ‘he Harltoid Police Department's policy and procedure on the Use of Loss Lethal Foree is Cenoral Order number I-27. Pass than lethal force can be used 1o defend yoursell, other officers, or a third person from the nse or immincnt Use Of force against ther, cllect ax arrest oF to provent the escape from cusiely of a person svho the officer reasonably believes bas commited un offense, fhwan another person From attempting suitide or from inflicting scrious paysical injury to pimselifherself, succossfully effect a scarch and seizure warrun, and ta defend themselves, ‘other officers, or third porson from (he 36 or imminent use of physical force while cdfecting or attempling to effect un aurest or while proventing or attempiing to prevent an escape. Officer Sooore did not mest the eriteria dictate by this olor when. he used force against Mr, Perer. Officer Secore should not have ised any forec agains! Mr. Peraz, Sworn plficers of the Hartford Police Department shall adhere to the highest standards of the law enforcement profession when executing their duties atid responsibitities. Whenever it becomes necessary to utilize force in performing these duties, ouly that reasonable force necessary to oversome the resistance offered shall bo pounitted and supported. Mr. Peucz never offered any resistance, he did nol attempt to escape or hacm himself, uor did he attempt to harm anyone else, Even though Officer Secore was off duty, he was acting in his capacity as a police officer when be entered booking to question Mr. Perez, Mr, Peres, statod thal he was told that a police officar was coming in to question him. Furthermore, Sergeant Sanmda said that Officer Secore told him that he wanted to interview the person that was involved in his brother's usseult, Hartford Police Policy and Procedure und the Code of Conduct applies to all officurs, on and offduty, Olficcr Secore was anested and charged with Assault 3%, 534-61, for bis actions, The arrest of a police officer whelhcr oa cuty or off duty discredits the police department and nadermines the public confidence in the dopartment and its uneosbers. “Tho Hatiford Police Detention ficility is a physically separale section of police headquarter. Tris separate (hom the rest of the boiltiry aud is Jocked! down, Ascuss is only ty a key or bybeing “buzzed in” via an clestronis entry systeni, Tho eloctronic entry system is positioned directly next (© the sergeant’s console in the main work area. It operates afl of the entry points inty booking, ‘Ihe seewtity prevent prisuners from escaping. Fr turn, prisoners should be able to vel sate insid ‘ace many satdgvards in place to proteel them, in ant around the booking feeility is primarily designed ag there ‘These safeguards failed to protect Mr. Pere. | find that Officer Secore did aot hefong in Yooking and showkd nol have been fet in. Sergeant Samnea should lave not allowed Offiect Secor into the booking facility. Te ix directly xesponsible for booking and is the supervisor in charge. Sergeant Saomida bus duties aad sesponsibilities that inskuite maintaining # high Jovel of securily and controlling access in and out of booking. The preponderance of evidence shows thal Sergeant Samnda let Olficor Secore into booking, ven though he didn’ remember, Sergeant Samuda stated since he was al the “hela”, the maiu console, be probably jel Fim tr, After allowing Offiecr Secore into booking, Sergeant Samuda gsanied his soquest to interview Mr. Perez even though he did not know if Officer Secore was on duty, Furthermore, Seyeant Samuda allowed the prisoner, Mr. Perey, to be removed from the rain holding cell and brought to the rear colls. Mir. Perex was the only male prisonur in booking at the Line. Iwas uneble to determine why Mr. Perez was taken (o the reat eolls, The remote location may havo or may have vot helped precipitate Officer Secore’s assault. If Mr. Peres remained in the main cell, the likelihood of him getting assaulted woukl have been reduced. When Olficer Secore entered Looking, he was described as being “upsel,” “agitated,” and “not bappy.” Sergeant Sarma should Teascnably had seen thal Officer Sccore was not in the proper cmotional state to interview anyone, fet alone a person involved in the assanilt of his brother Sergeant Samodu failed 10 properly supervisy his subordinates aid Gaited to méaitor the siluadion involving Mr, Perez. As the detention supervisor, Sergeant Sauda was responsible for cvexything that occarred in his facilily. TE Sergeant Samuda did wot let in Officer Socare, he would not have assaulted Mr. Pervz, Officer Rafuct Mena told J ieuterant Bernier that he observed Officer Secore grab Mr. Perez by the throat. Officer Mena thon stated he pulled Officer Secore off of Mr. Perey: and had hin leave booking. Oificer Mena’s asecunt of his involvement in the incident was documented on the Ususnal Occurrence Form completed hy Sergeant Gordon. ‘During his interview with Sexgeant Brooks and [, Officer Hlena initially stated he never witnessed any physical altorestion between Officer Secore und Mr. Poroz, When asked, Officer Mena said ho never saw Officer Seeare grab ivr. Perer, bythe neck, He never mentioncd pulling Officer Seoore off of Mr. Petes, This contradicted his original slatemeat made Lo Licutenant Bernier, which wes recorded on an oficial department record, When presented wid the unusual occurrence repact, Ofticer Mena cluaiged his story. He said he save Officer Sccore pra Mr. Perez by the shirt. Offiver Meno pulled Officer Secore awayand locked Mz, Perez in the cell. The preponderance of evidence shows that Officer Mena maute a fatse entry into department record, as his oxiginal statement to [.ientemant Bernier was different that the onc made to Tnlemal Affhire Investigators, When presented with evidence of hig two conllicting statements, Olficer Mons altered his depietion of the vests that took place. Officer Mena lied. Officer Mena hail a responsibifity to protect Mr. Peres and prevent him from geting assaulted. Mr. Pureg stated that Officer Mena stood by, idly, wiiile Officer ore assaniterl him. Ciflicer Mona said in one of his statements, he acted by pulling Ofliver Socore uff of Mr. Perez and stopping te assault. 1 was unable to prove that Officer Mena tock ne actions: 40 prevent Mr. Perey frou) getting assaulted. When asked, Officer Mena siated he never nolified his supervisor, Sergeant Sanda about what he wilnessed. Olficor Mena witnessed 9 clear violation of policy and procedure yet failed to coport it to the hooking supervisor, Officer Mena was a lined police officer. Thhe withersed any transgressions committed by a fellow officer, he was obligated to report them tea supervisor. Police Officers ure hold to a higher standard and are obliged to act on instances of misconduct, even if they involve fellow potice officers After a review of aif of the ficts, eiroumnstances, and evidence in this case, 1 find that Officer Matthew Secore used exeessive/inecessary force against a prisoner, which substiaunly led to his anmst, Sergeant ensit Samuda failod to properly supervise his subordinates and failed o properly supervise the activities in booking. Officer Ruftel Mena knowingly and willingly ade @ false catry into department record and he intentionally failed (© notify his supervisor after be witnessed an episode of polics misconduct, As of this writing, Officer Secore’s case is still pending in cout In conclusion, Officer Gecore violated the Hartford Police Depertment Code of, Article VIT, Section 7.01, Intentional, unnecessary, and excessive use of forec in effectaating ‘an arrost or in the performance and exeeation of other official duties, and Article 1, Section 1:00, Condluet mbecorn'ng att officer | find Officer Matthew Secnre: ‘Pacessive Force. SUSTAINED Conduct Undecoming an Officer... SUSTAINED Sergeant Densil Sarma violated the Hastiord Police Department Code af Conduct Aaticle IY, Section 4.04, Failure to properly supervise subordinates, or to take other appropriate action| Binet Sergeant Densil Sanmuda: Failure to Supervise.. SUSTAINED Officer Rafael Mena violated the Hartloré Police Department Code of Conduct Article 1, Scetion 2.10, Knuwingly or willingly making a felse entry in any departaental or other official report or recom and, Articfe Vi, Section 6.08, Intentional fale 16 take appropriate action when necessary and/or failure to make @ wailten report of same Lo appropriate burcau, division, or commanding officer. A Vind Olficc: Rafast Mena: SUSTAINED False Eutry into Department Record. SUSTAINED Intentional Failure to Take Appropriste Action VWThe complaint was received verbally