Accuser testifies at NYPD assault trial; police deny baton sex attack, cover-up charges

Accuser testifies at NYPD baton sex-abuse trial

NEW YORK — A tattoo parlor employee has been called to testify against a New York City officer charged with sodomizing him with a police baton. Two fellow policemen are charged with covering up the alleged attack.

Michael Mineo was called to the stand at midday Monday at the Brooklyn trial. Mineo says he was attacked on Oct. 15, 2008, in a subway station.

Other officers are expected to testify about what they witnessed.

Officer Richard Kern is charged with aggravated sexual abuse and assault. Officers Alex Cruz and Andrew Morales are charged with hindering prosecution and official misconduct.

If convicted, Kern could face up to 25 years in prison; the others could face up to four years. The three defendants have pleaded not guilty.