The jury has reached a verdict in the trial of a Meriden police officer accused of police brutality.
Meriden Police Officer Evan Cossette was found guilty on two counts.
He was found guilty of using unreasonable force against Pedro Temich and obstruction of justice by lying in his police report about it.
"Our system of justice cannot tolerate abuses by police officers, and today's verdict helps preserve the integrity of a profession that is entrusted with protecting our liberties as well as our safety," said Deirdre Daly, Acting U.S. Attorney in Connecticut.
Cossette, 26 took the stand in his own defense on Friday and said he did not mean to injure Temich when placing him in a holding cell on May 1, 2010.
Cossette testified that he felt threatened by Temich.
"He tightened up his body; he dropped his head, and I thought he was coming at me," Cossette said during his testimony on Friday.
Cossette is scheduled to sentenced on August 28 and faces a maximum of 30 years in prison.
"As law enforcement officers, we are measured by a higher standard because we are both sworn and privileged to uphold the United States Constitution," said FBI Special Agent in Charge, Kimberly Mertz. We must meet that standard with unfailing integrity and honor. Those who cannot meet that essential standard should not be wearing a badge."
