ORLANDO, Fla. — A federal jury has determined that an Orlando police officer intentionally violated an inmate's rights when he used excessive force on him while in a holding cell.
Surveillance video shows former Orlando police Officer Peter Delio kicking Robert Liese, who was handcuffed in a holding cell.
The jury rejected Delio's testimony that he was trying to create distance to prevent Liese from head-butting the door.
Liese's surgeon testified that Liese had a fresh, bloody spleen injury and needed an emergency splenectomy, but the jury found the knee strike did not cause that injury.
The findings mean that even though Liese was kicked and begging for medical attention for about an hour and a half before he was treated, Liese will don’t receive any money for his medical bills or for pain and suffering.
“'I’m not happy. I've kind of lost a little faith in the court system and the legal system at this point,” Liese said.
“Mr. Liese has a very humble background and circumstances, and I think that perhaps society doesn't feel those people deserve compensation, even when they're wrong,” said Liese’s attorney Bill Ruffier.
Delio was suspended but later fired after 9 Investigates exposed his failure to monitor Liese and call paramedics.
Delio is expected to face trial on other felony battery charges in the case.
WFTV legal analyst Bill Sheaffer said even if Delio is found not guilty, Friday’s verdict will likely discourage police departments from hiring him.
“It leaves them open for an argument that they should be liable for negligent hiring," said Sheaffer.
Sheaffer said Friday’s verdict could also jeopardize Delio's state law enforcement certification.
Cox Media Group
