Trial of Michael Sippel Continues

The star witness is expected to testify today at the misdemeanor assault trial of 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. 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. McAvoy was back on the stand and testified that after Pate was handcuffed there was no use of force from either him or Sippel. He also testified that he told Sippel he got worried when he saw Pate put his hand near his waistband.


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