Man seen in Peekskill arrest video arraigned on four charges
Damar Fields, 42, was assigned an attorney Thursday in Peekskill City Court and pleaded not guilty to public lewdness, obstruction of governmental administration, resisting arrest and a drug charge.
The man seen beaten by a Peekskill police officer in a viral video has been arraigned on four charges.
Damar Fields, 42, was assigned an attorney Thursday in Peekskill City Court and pleaded not guilty to public lewdness, obstruction of governmental administration, resisting arrest and a drug charge.
Cellphone and bodycam videos of the Dec. 3 incident at Riverfront Green Park sparked public outrage. An officer used a Taser on Fields several times while Fields was on the ground to attempt to get him to lay face down, then punched him in the face multiple times.
Police said they know Fields and that he struggles with mental illness. About 30 supporters with signs showed up to support him at his first court appearance.
Fields' case was adjourned until Feb. 26. His lawyer expects prosecutors to provide all evidence at that time.
The officer involved has been cleared of criminal charges but remains under internal investigation by Peekskill Police Department and is on paid leave.
