Article author:
Associated Press
London, Kentucky (AP) — The federal indictment alleges that current and former Kentucky police officers used excessive force during arrests and conspired to cover them up. denounced, officials said.
A grand jury in London indicted Jeremy Elliot, 28, of the Kentucky State Police. Michael L. Howell, 32 years old. Derek Lovett, 30, a former police officer, according to a statement Wednesday by U.S. Attorney Carlton S. Shire.
The indictment alleges that Elliot and Lovett assaulted and injured the victim without good cause, the statement said. It is written that he conspired to cover up the situation using
Howell said he had been charged with conspiracy and obstruction in June, but a replacement indictment found him guilty of conspiracy and obstruction of federal law enforcement. He was charged with attempting to prevent the transmission of information about alleged crimes against , the statement said.
According to the indictment, defendant crafted a cover his story of what happened that was as close as possible to what the record would show if the assault had been recorded.
It also alleges that Elliot illegally entered the home on the night of the assault, depriving the occupants of their right to be released from an unjustified search.
WDRB-TV reports that it stems from the arrest of Bradley Hamblin, who suffered severe bruising while being charged with arson in Whitley County. Hamblin filed a lawsuit in December 2020, claiming that training used by state police led to a "brutal beating" that left him with several fractures in his face.
Authorities said conspiracy and obstruction each carry a maximum sentence of 20 years' imprisonment. In addition, Elliott and Lovett will face up to ten years on a denial of rights charge related to the alleged assault, and Elliott will face up to one year on a denial of rights charge related to the alleged trespass.
Trial dates not yet set. An attorney listed for Howell did not immediately return a message seeking comment. It was not clear if the others had lawyers.
