A former Weymouth Police officer has taken his brutal tactics too far, pleading guilty to assaulting a man during an arrest. Justin Chappell, 43, of Massachusetts, pleaded guilty to one count of deprivation of rights under color of law.
According to court documents, on July 2, 2022, Chappell responded to a call regarding an allegedly intoxicated man causing a disturbance at a home in Weymouth. While on duty, Chappell placed the man under arrest and, while attempting to put the man in the police cruiser, punched him approximately 13 times with a closed fist without legal justification. The punches caused obvious pain and visible injuries to the man’s head.
Chappell, who was charged on April 3, 2024, faces up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division, made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Weymouth Police Department and the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Torey B. Cummings and Neil J. Gallagher Jr. of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
Chappell’s guilty plea is a stark reminder of the dangers of police brutality and the importance of holding law enforcement accountable for their actions. The case highlights the need for ongoing training and reform in police departments across the country.
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 16, 2024. In the meantime, Chappell will remain on the hook for his crimes, facing the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence and a hefty fine.
As this case continues to unfold, one thing is clear: police officers are not above the law, and they will be held accountable for their actions.
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Key Facts
- State: Massachusetts
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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