by Associated Press
DENVER (AP) - Prosecutors filed a misdemeanor assault charge against a police officer Tuesday, a week after a television news helicopter videotaped a suspect being kicked in the groin after he was captured.
Edward David faces a third-degree assault charge. He is accused of kicking 22-year-old Patrick Rodriguez between the legs as Rodriguez was face-down and handcuffed after a chase on March 20, District Attorney Bill Ritter said.
No charges will be filed against other officers involved in the arrest, district attorney spokesman Chuck Lepley said.
Lepley said David’s actions were not “reasonable, appropriate or necessary under the circumstances.”
David had no listed phone number. He did not immediately respond to a message left with a police spokesman after hours Tuesday.
The chase and capture of Rodriguez were captured on videotape by KCNC-TV in Denver.
Investigators said Rodriguez rammed police cars and other vehicles with a sport-utility vehicle. Rodriguez, who has a history of drug charges, said he fled because he got scared when an officer rammed him first.
Rodriguez faces charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute and vehicular eluding. The charges were filed Tuesday.
Rodriguez was wanted for missing a court appearance on a charge of attempted murder on a peace officer for allegedly pointing a gun at officer Michael Gallegos while running from police in January.
He was being held in the Denver County Jail under $150,000 bail.