Bunny Slapping Hopatcong Cop Reportedly Going To Trial

HOPATCONG, NJ— The police officer charged with simple assault after he was caught on video slapping a bunny-suited prankster will be headed to trial, NJ.com reported.

Hopatcong Officer Nicholas Maresca Jr. faces simple assault and harassment charges for slapping Kevin Hemmerich at the Hopatcong police station last fall. Hemmerich was turning himself in on charges of driving without insurance, and was not going quietly: wearing a bunny suit, Hemmerich repeatedly blasted an air horn while his brother filmed.

After asking, "Who's blowing the f------ air horn?," Maresca can be seen on video slapping Hemmerich. (You can watch the full video below.)

Maresca's trial is set for June 6, and Hemmerich is expected to testify against him, NJ.com reported.

Both Kevin and brother Jason Hemmerich were charged in relation to the stunt, as Patch previously reported. Kevin Hemmerich pled guilty to disorderly conduct and was fined $500. It was not immediately clear if Jason Hemmerich's case was resolved.

You can see the slap around the 3:36 mark, but be warned, the video contains strong language.

Read more:

• Cop Investigated for Slapping Man in Bunny Suit (VIDEO)
• NJ Police Officer Charged With Simple Assault For Slapping Man In Bunny Suit
• Bunny Brothers Charged For Prank Seen in Police Station Video: Report

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Image: YouTube screenshot