The Massachusetts state trooper who in video footage appears to punch a surrendering suspect after a high-speed chase will be suspended with pay as the investigation into the circumstances of the arrest continue, the department announced. Police did not name the officer involved, citing an ongoing investigation. They do note he was assigned to the department’s barracks in Andover, is 32 years old and has been a member of the department since October 2011. The decision came after a duty status hearing was held Friday afternoon at the department’s headquarters to determine the officer’s status as the investigation moves forward.
RELATED:Footage of officers after police chase prompts social media backlash A New Hampshire state trooper who also appears to hit the suspect on video was relieved from duty this week, as that department conducts its own investigation. Governors of both states expressed concern about the arrest, as well as former Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis. The man arrested, Richard Simone, 50, of Worcester, allegedly fled from police who attempted to arrest him on open warrants, at times reaching speeds of 90 miles per hour. You can watch his arrest below:
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
