Two NYPD Officers Accused of Brutally Beating Firefighter

LONG BEACH, N.Y.

Two police officers are on the wrong side of the law, accused of brutally beating a firefighter on Long Island.

The two New York City Police officers assigned to the 101 surrendered in Long Beach, where they were fingerprinted, photographed and charged with third degree assault.

Officer Douglas Rome of Floral Park and Officer Jason Ragoo of Long Beach have been suspended without pay -- their weapons confiscated -- accused of beating up a local firefighter who objected when the off duty officers allegedly made a rude remark to the firefighter's sister.

The firefighter's colleagues had filled the courtroom.

Early Saturday, Long Beach police say off duty Long Beach firefighter Brian McNamara was leaving a bar near his home with his sister, and passed by a group of five men, when a crude remark was uttered.

According to court documents, 32-year-old McNamara said: "...they made comments about my sister. I yelled back at them. They walked over to me and the next thing I knew I was wrestled down to the pavement. I remember my sister screaming as they kicked my face and head."

The firefighter's housemates describe their friend as shaken to the core. Witnesses to the attack say McNamara doesn't want to stir up trouble between the many cops and firefighters who live here.

And that is why the firefighter was at first reluctant to press charges. Long Beach police say they are looking for a third suspect, but it is unclear if he, too, is in the NYPD.

The officers pleaded not guilty and were released on their own recognizance. They were represented by police union attorneys.


http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2008/09/19/NYC_cops_charged_with_assault/UPI-96571221798650/