Florida Police Officer Accused Of Striking Handcuffed Man

HOLLYWOOD, FL — A Florida police officer was charged with battery Thursday after home security video allegedly showed the officer striking a handcuffed suspect, according to Broward County State Attorney Mike Satz and the Hollywood Police Department.

The first-degree misdemeanor charge against Officer Matthew Barbieri of the Hollywood Police Department stemmed from an Aug. 6 incident that took place in the home of a man who officers believed to be under the influence of controlled substance at the time. The man was not wearing any clothes when officers arrived.

Hollywood Police Chief Chris O'Brien said he took swift action when he learned of the incident and also notified the Broward State Attorney’s Office.

“When I was made aware of this incident, I was extremely disappointed, and immediately relieved the officer of all departmental duties," O’Brien said. "I also initiated an internal affairs investigation, which led to the officer being charged criminally."

Court documents said the confrontation occurred as Barbieri appeared to search the man's home for drugs after the man allegedly acknowledged that he tried to dispose of what police described as "potential narcotics evidence."

The 34-year-old officer allegedly struck the man after the man complained that the officer needed a warrant to search his efficiency that is attached to his parents' home.

"Wait a minute. Wait a minute," the man allegedly told the officer. "Nobody gave you permission to search the house. There's no warrant. No nothing. There's no permission."

Officials said the officer allegedly struck the man in the face twice with his right hand before placing his left hand on the man's throat.

The man could be heard saying "ow" while the officer was heard saying, "How about now? How about now? Do I have permission now?"

The man from the 2400 block of Cleveland Street was charged with possession of heroin. The incident sparked an internal affairs investigation into the officer’s use of force. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m.

Barbieri allegedly could be heard telling another officer on the scene: "I'm gonna have to say that he was kicking."