NYPD officer denies at trial that he sexually abused handcuffed man

NYC policeman denies abusing handcuffed suspect

NEW YORK — A New York City officer has testified that he never abused a handcuffed suspect with a police baton.

Officer Richard Kern has pleaded not guilty to aggravated sexual abuse and assault. Michael Mineo says he was sodomized by police with a baton while handcuffed in October 2008.

Kern testified Thursday that he put the baton away while arresting Mineo. But on cross-examination, Kern said he had first used the baton to hold down the suspect’s legs.

Asked by his attorney if he placed the baton in Mineo’s rectum, he replied: “No, I did not.”

Two other officers have pleaded not guilty to hindering prosecution and official misconduct.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

NEW YORK (AP) — A New York City police officer is testifying in his own defense at his sex abuse trial.

Officer Richard Kern has pleaded not guilty to aggravated sexual abuse and assault. Michael Mineo says he was sodomized by police with a baton while handcuffed in October 2008.

Kern testified Thursday that Mineo was carrying a benefits card when the alleged incident occurred. That contradicts Mineo’s claim that he tried to flee when he saw police because he wasn’t carrying ID.

Mineo also has said officers told him he was going to be arrested for smoking marijuana.

Kern had been working with an anti-crime team. He says those duties did not include arresting people for such minor offenses.

Two other officers have pleaded not guilty to hindering prosecution and official misconduct.