Man seen in video putting officer in chokehold charged
MOUNT HOPE, The Bronx (WABC) -- A man seen on video putting an NYPD officer in a chokehold during a scuffle in the Bronx is facing charges after all.
The Bronx District Attorney's Office is moving forward with the prosecution of 28-year-old Wisnel Manzueta weeks after it initially deferred prosecution.
Video of the incident was posted on Twitter by the Sergeants Benevolent Association.
Police said officers observed a large group and a vehicle illegally parked in front of a fire hydrant at 1815 Morris Ave. the night of July 1.
Police approached the driver and asked him to move the vehicle away and he refused.
MORE: Video shows man attacking NYPD officer trying to break up fight
The 31-year-old suspect continued to refuse to move his vehicle even after officers issued him a summons, so they attempted to place him under arrest.
He resisted and while the officers were working to bring him under control, Manzueta approached and refused to back away.
When police attempted to take him into custody, Manzueta fought back, putting an officer in a chokehold and punching him several times.
At the time, Bronx D.A. Darcel Clark's office said they put off charges in order to gather more evidence, a move that outraged several police unions.
Manzueta surrendered with his attorney Thursday on charges of assault, reckless endangerment, resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration, unlawfully dealing with fireworks, and harassment.
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