02/23/2024
Community 5 Action News Investigates Baltimore County Police Officer for Alleged Use of Excessive Force
A recent investigation by Community 5 Action News shines a light on allegations against a Baltimore County police officer, Cpl. Zachary Small, for purported use of excessive force. The officer stands accused of pepper spraying a handcuffed man in the face and confining him inside a hot patrol car, despite the man's repeated pleas of distress.
In addition to these serious accusations, Cpl. Small faces charges of reckless endangerment, misconduct in office, and multiple counts of assault following a grand jury indictment filed this week. The indictment provides a detailed account of the incident, capturing verbal exchanges where Small reportedly ignored the man's requests for fresh air.
With 19 years of service in the Baltimore County Police Department and prior experience in the Military Police, Cpl. Small's attorney, Brian Thompson, emphasizes the importance of the presumption of innocence. Thompson urges the public to reserve judgment until all facts are revealed during the trial, expressing confidence in Small's eventual exoneration.
The incident in question took place in September at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, where officers, including Small, were dealing with a suspect who had escaped police custody during medical treatment. Despite the man's complaints about breathing difficulties and lack of air conditioning in the patrol car, the situation escalated with Small allegedly using pepper spray and displaying aggressive behavior.
Additionally, officers Justin Graham-Moore and Jacob Roos have also been charged with misconduct in office in connection with the encounter. While specific details of their alleged misconduct remain undisclosed, the three officers have been suspended as the Baltimore County Police Department collaborates with prosecutors on the case.
The Baltimore City State's Attorney's Office, responsible for presenting the case to the grand jury, has reserved comment but plans to reveal further information during an upcoming news conference. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
