A New Haven police officer who punched a handcuffed man in the face and kicked him in the groin was officially fired Tuesday night at the police chief’s recommendation.
The New Haven Board of Police Commissioners voted 4-2 after a lengthy meeting to fire Santiago, whose actions were captured on body camera footage released last week.
“These are difficult decisions to make. I understand Officer Santiago had a good record as a New Haven Police Officer,” New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker said. “Even so, we must have a high standard for officer conduct in the New Haven Police Department and ensure officers do not use unnecessary force.