Nationwide — Christian Zapata, a former NYPD sergeant who punched an African American man from Harlem, New York Metropolis, 13 occasions throughout a 911 name about an autistic youngster, was convicted of tried assault however averted jail time. He was sentenced to time served and acquitted of a extra severe cost.
On December 7, 2022, cops responded to a Harlem condo to assist with a 15-year-old autistic boy after his mom referred to as for help. Jerome Collins, the boy’s father, requested officers to put on facemasks, however they refused. Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg stated Collins was calm and posed “no quick hazard or bodily risk,” in response to the New York Put up.
Tensions rose when Zapata accused Collins of interfering with medical employees. Bodycam footage reveals Zapata warning Collins that he may very well be arrested. A wrestle broke out when an officer grabbed Collins’ wrist, and Zapata punched him repeatedly in lower than 9 seconds whereas Collins’ girlfriend yelled for him to cease.
Different officers stepped in to cease the assault. Regardless of being handcuffed, Collins comforted his girlfriend and reassured his youngsters, saying, “It’s all proper. It’s all proper.” His 8-year-old son may very well be heard crying within the background.
Police initially charged Collins with resisting arrest and obstruction, however each fees had been later dropped. Zapata was suspended, demoted from sergeant to officer, and finally resigned from the NYPD.
DA Bragg stated holding regulation enforcement accountable is vital to public security and belief. “Law enforcement officials have difficult jobs and I’ve the utmost respect for our women and men in uniform, however using illegal drive can’t be permitted,” he added.
