Today was day 2 of the misdemeanor assault trial for suspended Rochester police officer Michael Sippel.
Sippel is accused of using excessive force while arresting Christopher Pate, who turned out not to be the burglary suspect Sippel and his partner thought they were confronting. During Thursday's testimony, Sippel's partner, Spencer McAvoy, was questioned about how he decided Pate might be James Barrett, the wanted man, and when he realized Pate wasn't Barrett.
Sippel's Defense Attorney Clark Zimmerman says McAvoy thought it was Barrett.
Pate claims he was handcuffed and beaten although he showed his ID. Body cam footage played in court showed Officer Sippel demanding ID and struggling with Pate.
Pate is expected to testify Friday.