[Southsider2k12]

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2012/0...91732614817.txt

State police complete case investigation

Staff Reports
Published: Tuesday, April 17, 2012 5:06 PM CDT
MICHIGAN CITY — The Indiana State Police have completed an investigation into an accusation that a Michigan City police officer punched a 43-year-old Michigan City resident outside of Reilly’s Bar and Grill on Franklin Street on April 2.

Indiana State Police First Sgt. Al Williamson said the detectives have finished the investigation and it will be turned over to La Porte County Prosecutor Bob Szilagyi, who will determine if charges will be filed against anyone in the case.

According to the initial report in the case, the alleged victim was found on a sidewalk near Reilly’s, holding a white cloth to the top of his head. The cloth had been given to him by a bystander who knew first aid and was assisting him until emergency medical technicians arrived.

According to the report, the victim had been asked to leave the bar after being refused admission by the bar’s security guard. According to the security guard, the refusal was because the victim was attempting to bring alcohol into the bar.

The off-duty Michigan City police officer allegedly assisted in removing the victim from the bar and identified himself as an officer. One witness told police the victim tried to hit the officer but missed and the officer returned the punch. It was not clear whether the victim’s injuries occurred as a result of the punch or from falling. Another witness told police the officer punched the victim as the man was walking away.Michigan City Police Department turned the case over to the state police for the investigation. Royce Williams, chief of operations for Michigan City Police Department, earlier said the officer fully cooperated in the investigation.