An American state trooper has been relieved from duty without pay after an act of police brutality was caught clearly on camera.
The incident followed an hour-long high-speed police chase on Wednesday that went from the US state of Massachusetts to New Hampshire.
Police pursued a ute, driven by 50-year-old Richard Simone. The chase was caught on camera from a helicopter.
When the chase finishes, Simone can be seen getting down on the ground in surrender. A group of police approach slowly, then begin punching him.
A resident on the street witnessed the assault. She says he looked like he was surrendering.
"I don't know what he did. Obviously they weren't happy, but he wasn't fighting them so it was a little bit much."
Police say Simone had warrants for crimes including assault and failure to stop for police.
A wide-ranging investigation has been launched, as the case involves several state and local police. It will be led by the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office.
"The footage I first saw yesterday evening is very concerning and something we have to take absolutely seriously," Governor Maggie Hassan said.
Newshub.
