BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (AP) — A 20-year veteran Bridgeport police officer has been fired for using excessive force during an arrest last year, officials announced.
Officer Richard Cretella was fired Wednesday after an internal affairs investigation into the April 1, 2020 arrest, Acting Chief Rebeca Garcia announced.
“After careful review of all evidence and rebuttal information provided during his Due Process Hearing, it is clear that Officer Cretella engaged in utilizing excessive force during an incident involving a City of Bridgeport resident,” Garcia said. Details of the incident were not released.
Sgt. Brad Seely, president of the Bridgeport police union, said the union will file a grievance over Cretella’s firing.
“All citizens have a right to due process and Officer Cretella is no exception,” Seely said in a statement. “The Union will take the necessary steps to ensure Officer Cretella’s rights are preserved.”
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