Crime & Safety
New Haven Police Officer Charged In Use-Of-Force Case
A former police officer is facing charges for using force against a person in handcuffs.
NEW HAVEN, CT — A former New Haven police officer was arrested Tuesday as a result of a use-of-force investigation, according to a statement from police. Jason Santiago, 33, was charged with third-degree assault and second-degree breach of peace related to a Dec. 25, 2019 incident.
According an arrest warrant affidavit, Santiago was among police officers attempting to take a suspect into custody who was resisting arrest. The alleged use of force occurred after the suspect was placed under arrest and handcuffed.
Santiago is accused of punching the person who was handcuffed.
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“This criminal matter was thoroughly investigated by the Division of Criminal Justice,” Chief State’s Attorney Richard J. Colangelo, Jr., said in a statement. “The DCJ found that Mr. Santiago’s actions merit his arrest and prosecution. This officer’s actions, once the suspect was in custody, exceeded his authority and were in violation of his training and Connecticut law.”
Santiago was released on a promise to appear in New Haven Superior Court on Sept. 9.
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The Board of Police Commissioners recently voted to fire Santiago due to the allegations against him.
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