N.J. Officer Charged After Video Shows Him Assaulting Man Blowing Horn In Bunny Suit
SUSSEX COUNTY, N.J. (CBS)—A New Jersey police officer is facing charges after video shows him assaulting a bunny-suited man.
According to NJ.com, Kevin Hemmerich went to the Hopatcong police headquarters on the evening of Nov. 17 with the intention of turning himself in for an outstanding warrant, and to record an air horn prank at the same time.
Video posted using Facebook Live show the incident inside the police department.
WARNING: Video contains profanity: CLICK HERE TO WATCH HERE.
After repeatedly blowing the horn, video shows the officer cursing and striking Hemmerich in the face.
The Sussex County Prosecutor's Office says Officer Nicholas J. Maresca, Jr. is being charged with one count of Simple Assault.
He will remain on administrative duty pending resolution of the charge.
In an interview with NJ.com, Maresca's lawyer Anthony Iacullo said the officer maintains his innocence.
"Officer Maresca acted appropriately and in accordance with his training and experience as a police officer on that evening in Hopatcong," Iacullo said. "We are confident that when this matter proceeds to trial Officer Maresca will be vindicated of the one charge against him."
A court date has been set for December 28, 2016 for a first appearance.
No one was seriously injured in the incident.
