Four Connecticut police officers were arrested Tuesday by the FBI, which claims the men assaulted illegal immigrants and created false reports to try and cover up abuses.
The East Haven officers unlawfully searched businesses owned by Latinos, assaulted people while they were handcuffed, threatened and harassed people, including witnesses, and committed other offenses, according to a federal indictment.
“Today’s indictment should serve as a powerful message that we in the Department of Justice will not tolerate the abuse of power or victimization of civilians by anyone in law enforcement,” stated David B. Fein, the U.S Attorney for the District of Connecticut.
The FBI began investigating the four officers in 2009 and found a pattern of abuse.
Officers Dennis Spaulding, David Cari, Jason Zullo, and Sgt. John Miller, who is the president of the local police union, were charged with conspiracy, obstruction of justice, and depriving individuals of their rights, according to the indictment.
