Probation for Rights Violation

[Hawkeye6]

Ex-Mississippi Trooper Gets Probation for Violating Teen's Rights
Posted: September 23rd, 2005 10:47 AM EDT

ASSOCIATED PRESS


JACKSON, Miss. (AP) -- A federal judge has given a former Mississippi Highway Patrol officer three years supervised probation for violating the rights of a teenager during a traffic stop in 2003.

John Kevin Smith, 35, had pleaded guilty earlier this year to a misdemeanor civil rights violation charge involving Michael Waldrup. Smith also must wear an electronic monitoring device for a year, U.S. District Judge David Bramlett ordered Thursday.

Smith had admitted using excessive force on Waldrup. He forced the teen to the ground and his face hit the pavement, according to the FBI.

Smith also admitted he intentionally attempted to obstruct the investigation of his alleged misconduct. He admitted he denied the existence of a tape that showed the traffic stop after the boy's parents filed a complaint, according to the FBI.

In addition to the supervised probation, Smith also must pay a $1,500 fine.

As part of a plea agreement, Smith, who had been assigned to the Brookhaven district, had to resign before his sentencing date. Highway Patrol officials said Smith resigned Wednesday.

Bramlett said Smith can't acquire or possess a firearm and can leave home only to attend work or church.

Smith had been on desk duty pending the outcome of the misdemeanor charge involving Waldrup.

Information from: The Clarion-Ledger

http://www.clarionledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/frontpage