SHREVEPORT, LA. - Following a four-day trial, a former Louisiana police officer was convicted by a federal jury on one charge of deprivation of rights under color of law, the Department of Justice reports. The charge was related to the officer's assault on a non-violent loitering suspect.
According to the Department of Justice, it was established in court that Dylan Hudson, aged 36, was involved in a physical altercation with a suspect who was loitering during a daytime arrest in Shreveport, Louisiana. During the arrest, physical force was used by the officer against the suspect, resulting in strikes to the head and face.
The conduct observed during the trial and presented as evidence to the jury through video footage from police dashboard cameras involved multiple instances of force that could potentially cause harm. The defendant allegedly used a loaded pistol to strike the suspect in the head, applied a taser to the base of the skull, and delivered a kick to the face.
According to the Department of Justice, witnesses stated that the suspect who was loitering remained non-violent during the entire arrest. Witnesses also mentioned that the police officer's actions, which went against their training and policy, posed a risk not only to the suspect but also to others.
Click here for the latest news updates and to join in the conversation.Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division stated that she believes the conduct of the defendant, which was recorded on video, was appalling. She said that when an officer engages in severe misuse of the authority given to them by their community, the Justice Department will take appropriate legal action in response.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown for the Western District of Louisiana said Dylan Hudson's behavior during this incident was deemed inappropriate and raises questions about his suitability to hold a badge of honor. He said he hopes that all parties involved, including the victim, the Shreveport community, and the Shreveport Police Department, can now start the healing process following Hudson's unlawful conduct.
Brown further stated this trial marks the first instance in the history of this district where a member of the Shreveport Police Department has received a guilty verdict, and that this administration is dedicated to thoroughly investigating and prosecuting incidents of unjustified use of force in a determined manner, in accordance with the law.
Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams Jr. of the FBI New Orleans Field Office stated that Mr. Hudson's actions are not suitable for law enforcement. He claims the FBI and its partners prioritize safeguarding the public from individuals who abuse the trust and authority associated with their badges.
The maximum penalty for the alleged crime is a sentence of up to 10 years of imprisonment. The date for sentencing has been set for October 26th.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Mudrick for the Western District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Thomas Johnson of the Civil Rights Division's Criminal Section.
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