Two officers who appear on video to repeatedly punch a surrendering suspect after he led officers on a high-speed chase from Massachusetts into New Hampshire are now facing assault charges, the New Hampshire Attorney General’s office announced Tuesday. Trooper Joseph Flynn, 32, of the Massachusetts State Police and Trooper Andrew Monaco, 31, of the New Hampshire State Police, were charged with simple assault stemming from their arrest of Richard Simone, 50, of Worcester last May. Flynn is charged with two counts, while Monaco faces three. They were released on $2,000 and $3,000 personal recognizance, respectively.
As both men were acting as officers of the law during the time of the alleged acts, state law allows for both men to face an enhanced penalty, according to the attorney general’s office.
The chase’s conclusion was broadcast live online by a number of news networks, with footage that seems to show Simone showing officers his hands, exiting his truck and kneeling on the ground. One officer is seen punching the suspect in the head, while another comes from behind and joins in, landing repeated blows on the man.
POLICE CHASE: Man gets out of truck in #Nashua after pursuit, lies down. Officers punch him repeatedly. #WBZ pic.twitter.com/C6MOSZssBf
— Liam Martin (@LiamWBZ) May 11, 2016
