NH, Mass. State Troopers on leave after video shows officers punching suspect

NASHUA, NH — A New Hampshire State Police trooper and a Massachusetts State Police trooper were placed on leave just one day after live SkyFox video showed officers punching a suspect at the end of a police chase. 

The chase began in Massachusetts Wednesday evening and ended an hour later in New Hampshire. As the suspect, Richard Simone, pulls over his vehicle and gets out of the car, officers can be seen punching him while he's on the ground.

NEW HAMPSHIRE TROOPER ON LEAVE

The New Hampshire trooper is on unpaid leave and New Hampshire State Police said there would be a full investigation. The New Hampshire Attorney General's office said they were launching a criminal investigation into the arrest of Simone. The NH Attorney General said they would determine if the force violated any provisions of the criminal code.

"I share concern that everybody has when they watch that footage. but what is also really important is that a thorough complete investigation take place," said New Hampshire governor Maggie Hassan.

MASSACHUSETTS TROOPER ON LEAVE

The Massachusetts State Police trooper placed on leave has an internal hearing scheduled for Friday. The hearing will determine if he is placed on modified duty during the investigation. The trooper is currently being paid, but the outcome of the hearing could change that.

The hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m.

The names of the troopers involved will not be released, since it is an active investigation. 

SUSPECT HAS CRIMINAL PAST

Richard Simone went before a judge Thursday for the chase. He had a bruised left eye and visible stitches to his left ear.

Simone has a lengthy criminal record, dating back to 1999. Days earlier in Millbury, he tried to ram an officer's car, according to court records. Other charges include shoplifting, drug possession and assault with a dangerous weapon.

Cox Media Group