DENVER—Former Denver Manager of Safety Al LaCabe called the severe beating of a 16-year-old suspect a “run of mill” event that was acceptable as part of police culture.
The Denver Post reports ( ) that LaCabe made his comments Thursday during hearing of a panel of the Civil Service Commission. The panel is hearing an appeal from Chuck Porter who lost his job despite being acquitted of criminal charges. Two other officers did not face charges but were also terminated.
Juan Vasquez suffered liver and kidney damage in the April 2008 beating that included allegations that Porter jumped on his back as the teen lay on the ground.
LaCabe says the beating was unusual only because the injuries were so severe. LaCabe served from 2003 until his retirement last year.
