BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) -- Bridgeport is getting some new cops
on the heels of police brutality allegations. 28 new officers are graduating
from the academy just one week after a YouTube video surfaced showing officers
kicking a hand-cuffed suspect.
After two alleged incidents of brutality, the bridgeport
police department is trying rebuild its reputation and the newly sworn-in
officers hope they can help.
28 graduates of the Bridgeport Police academy saluted, shook
hands and took the oath. Some will work in neighboring communities and 19 will
serve in the state's largest city.
"This is my home town and I'm glad to be working for my
home town," said Officer Juan Esquilin.
Bridgeport swears in these new cops the same week the
department received two complaints of police brutality.
The first complain came from Olando Lopez-Soto. In a video
taken more than a year ago, Lopez-Soto was handcuffed as he was kicked and
stomped on by Bridgeport Police. Those Officers are now on administrative duty.
"There's no excuse for that. I mean, the guy was
handcuffed. I don't know the circumstances, I don't know what happened before
or whatever but I do pray for these officers," said Officer. Esquilin.
The second complaint of excessive force comes from a family
of five, charged with breach of peace and interfering with an officer. They say
officers harassed them and tazed the father of the family, sending him to the
hospital.
The message today was to respect residents of the
communities they serve.
"Remember, kindness is not a sign of weakness,"
said Chief Gaudett. "How you act reflects on all of us. Make us
proud."
"Get to know you're community because you never know
when you're going to need their help," said Officer Esquilin