Justin Gaither, Assaulting Handcuffed Man, Missouri 2022

ST. LOUIS – A former police officer has been sentenced to two years in prison for assaulting a handcuffed man in Missouri. Justin Gaither, a 34-year-old former Venice Police Department officer, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis in February to one count of deprivation of rights under color of law.

The incident occurred on November 20, 2022, when Gaither was in full uniform and on duty. He was pursuing a car displaying stolen license plates, which led to a high-speed chase over the McKinley Bridge and into St. Louis. Gaither and a Brooklyn Police Department officer, along with the officer’s K-9, chased the driver, who was bitten by the K-9 and fell. The driver’s hands were then handcuffed behind his back by the Brooklyn officer.

According to the investigation, Gaither lifted the driver from the ground to escort him to a police vehicle when he struck the driver twice in the face without justification or a legitimate purpose. The driver suffered a broken nose as a result of the assault.

The FBI investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Krug prosecuted the case. Gaither’s sentencing highlights the importance of holding law enforcement accountable for their actions and ensuring that the rights of citizens are protected.

The case serves as a reminder that police officers are not above the law and that they will be held accountable for any misconduct. The community can be assured that the authorities will take swift action against any officer who engages in such behavior.

As Gaither begins his two-year sentence, the public can rest assured that justice has been served. The community can now move forward, knowing that those responsible for such actions will face the consequences.

In a statement, officials expressed their commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that citizens are treated with respect and dignity by law enforcement. The authorities will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the rights of citizens are protected and that those who violate these rights are held accountable.

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