CCRB finds excessive force in James Blake takedown, recommends departmental charges
NEW YORK (WABC) -- The Civilian Complaint Review Board has substantiated the charge of excessive force against Officer James Frascatore, who took James Blake to the ground last month, and recommended departmental charges that could lead to his suspension or dismissal.
Police Commissioner William Bratton will make the final determination, following an internal departmental trial.
Additionally, the CCRB found that Detective Daniel Herzog, who authorized the arrest, abused his authority. The board recommended a command discipline, likely a loss of vacation days, or similar internal punishment.
James Blake released the following statement:
"I want to express my appreciation to the Civilian Complaint Review Board for their quick and thorough review of the incident during which I was attacked on September 9, 2015. I learned today that the CCRB has substantiated the Complaint, filed on my behalf by my attorney Kevin Marino, against James Frascatore (for excessive force), and Daniel Herzog (for abuse of authority). It is my understanding that these officers now face an administrative trial for their roles in the respective offenses. I have complete respect for the principle of due process and appreciate the efforts of the CCRB to advance this investigation."
Here is the video that was released of the event:
PBA president Patrick J. Lynch released a statement saying: "Even with the facts that have come to light that contradicts media reports about this stop, it is still no surprise that the CCRB -- which continues to be nothing more than cop-hating branch of the New York Civil Liberties Union -- would substantiate the use of force complaint in such a questionably public manner. Clearly the officer did not strike the individual or seek to harm him in any way. He used an acceptable technique to gain compliance during a complex ongoing operation in a manner that did not compromise the simultaneous arrest being made a short distance away. An objective review of these facts will vindicate the officers involved."
RELATED STORY: Former tennis star James Blake on arrest mixup: NYPD officer shouldn't be on force anymore
