DALLAS (AP) - Dallas police officials say an officer has been fired for violating procedure and for repeatedly striking a motorist he pursued.
Officials announced Friday that police Chief David O. Brown terminated Rene Villanueva, who had been a Dallas patrolman since 2007.
An internal affairs investigation found that Villanueva failed to conduct a proper felony stop following a pursuit, used excessive force and brought discredit to the department. He was indicted last week by a grand jury for official oppression and assault.
Officials say Villanueva was working off-duty at a club in November when he saw the motorist speed through the parking lot. Villanueva pulled over the driver and assaulted him while placing him in custody. A dashboard camera showed Villanueva in one instance use his firearm to strike the driver.
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