The Rochester Police Department has fired Officer Michael Sippel, following his misdemeanor assault conviction last month. Sippel was found guilty of using excessive force in arresting a man he mistakenly thought was a burglary suspect.
The department says his termination is effective as of May 28th, the day he was found guilty. The department says state and city laws say Sippel can no longer work as a sworn officer.
Police Chief La'Ron Singletary says in a statement that Rochester police officers do a tremendous job protecting and serving the citizens of Rochester...and he remains steadfast in supporting officers who go out and place their lives on the line for this community.