Prince George's Co. officer who held gun to man's head found guilty
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. - A Prince George’s County police officer who put a gun to a man’s head during a stop in Bowie was found guilty in court on Wednesday.
Officer Jenchesky Santiago was convicted on charges of first and second degree assault, misconduct in office and the use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence.
Santiago faces a minimum of five years in prison without parole and a maximum of 45 years in prison.
Police released video of the May 2014 incident, which was recorded by the victim's cousin. Prosecutors said Santiago had accused the man of parking illegally when he had not. No one was injured.
“I don't think we would be here today if the video wasn't here. I think that things like this sometimes slip under the radar if you don’t have proof and some kind of evidence to back up what you're saying,” said victim William Cunningham.
Santiago, a member of the department for two years when the incident happened, was suspended in June 2014. Now that there is a verdict, the police chief said they can begin the process of termination.
"The actions Officer Santiago chose to take that day are his alone. His behavior is flagrant, appalling and isolated. His actions are among the worst I've seen as Chief of Police and that will be taken into account when I make a decision about his employment," said Chief Mark Magaw.
Santiago's bond was revoked, and his wife cried as he was taken away in handcuffs. He will remain in custody until his sentencing on January 8.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.