PGPD Releases Video of Officer's Egregious Actions: Chief Condemns Behavior

 

Prince George's County Police Chief Mark Magaw today strongly condemned the actions of Officer Jenchesky Santiago following his conviction 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 was convicted for behavior which occurred while he was on duty on May 10, 2014. A citizen recorded Santiago's actions on a cell phone. Santiago puts a gun to a citizen's head during an investigatory stop in Bowie. No one was injured. 

The Prince George's County Police Department's Internal Affairs Division launched an investigation after learning of this incident. The department brought this case to the State's Attorney's Office for review. Santiago was suspended on June 3, 2014. Following his indictment, his status changed to suspended without pay.

As part of the department's ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability, we are releasing the cell phone video. 

"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.

Maryland law requires Santiago have the right to appeal the outcome of the department's administrative investigation. Following the final outcome of the administrative process, the findings will go to Chief Magaw.    

Santiago had been employed by the PGPD for two years when the incident occurred and was assigned to the Bureau of Patrol.