Ex-Minersville Police Officers Charged With Civil Rights & False Reporting

Tuesday, October 15, 2024, 6:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

SCRANTON, PA.- A Federal Grand Jury for the Middle District of Pennsylvania returned an indictment against Harry Brown, 43, of Pottsville, Pennsylvania, and Richard Clink, 50, of Minersville, Pennsylvania, on charges of Depriving the Civil Rights of Another by Use of Excessive Force; and Making False Reports as Law Enforcement Officers.

     According to U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam and charging information unsealed in the indictment. It is alleged that on or about February 2, 2022, while on duty as Police Officers for the Minersville Police Department, Brown and Clink, aiding and abetting one another deprived an arrestee of his constitutional rights of being free from the unnecessary and unreasonable force by a law enforcement officer.

     The use of unnecessary and unreasonable force led to the arrestee sustaining serious bodily injury. The indictment further alleges that Brown and Clink then falsified police reports to cover up the use unreasonable use of force.

Special Agent In Charge Jacobs Says

     “Law enforcement officers take an oath to serve and protect the public, but as alleged in this case, these officers violated the constitutional rights of an individual and then attempted to cover up their actions,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “FBI Philadelphia and our partners will continue to ensure the civil rights of our citizens are protected, and those who commit crimes will be held accountable.”

“The rules of the court require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.”