Fairmount Heights Officer Dupree Found Guilty of Excessive Force

Former Fairmount Heights, MD Police Officer Philip Dupree, 40, has been found guilty of violating a man’s civil rights through excessive force. U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly will schedule sentencing after which Dupree could face up to 10 years in prison.

The jury verdict was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Assistant U.S. Attorney General Kristen Clarke, who emphasized that police brutality has no place in today’s society and erodes trust with the communities they are sworn to protect.

Dupree, who was on duty during a traffic stop in Washington, D.C., handcuffed the driver behind his back and placed him in his personal vehicle without activation of a body-worn camera. The FBI Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg stated that the case demonstrates the commitment to investigating officers involved in misconduct.

The incident occurred on August 4, 2019, when Dupree conducted a traffic stop on Eastern Avenue NE, following a speeding vehicle and its occupants from a Maryland cookout. The driver’s sister called 911, prompting an MPD officer to arrive with his BWC activated, while Dupree did not activate his own.

Assistant Attorney General Clarke highlighted that the victim was handcuffed and restrained when the assault occurred, emphasizing the Justice Department’s commitment to holding officers accountable for violating civil rights. U.S. Attorney Graves emphasized that an officer who abuses authority breaks community trust and tarnishes the reputation of those who do their jobs correctly.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities police officers hold and the consequences faced by those who misuse their power.