Gwinnett Cops In Violent Videos Charged With Crimes

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA — Two former Gwinnett County Police officers who were captured on video attacking a motorist during a traffic stop were hit with criminal charges in the case on Wednesday.

Michael Bongiovanni, 42, and Robert McDonald, 25 were charged with misdemeanor battery and violation of their oaths of office, which is a felony.

"The police department and its employees will continue to serve the citizens while maintaining our core values and highest level of professionalism," said Police Chief Butch Ayers.

McDonald was fired on April 13, after a video circulated by a local Black Lives Matter activist showed him kicking the head and face of a motorist who was already on the ground and handcuffed.

Hours later, a second video surfaced showing Bongiovanni either punch or elbow the same motorist in the face, while the man had his hands raised. He was fired from the police department the same day.

Demetrius Hollins, 21, was pulled over in Lawrenceville for not having a license plate and changing lanes multiple times without signaling. Police say he refused to stop until his car stalled out.

He was taken to a hospital to be treated for injuries he sustained during the traffic stop.

Since the officers' firing, 89 criminal cases involving the two officers have been tossed out by prosecutors. The Gwinnett County District Attorney is considering dropping more cases.

Photos courtesy Gwinnett County Police Department