A Meriden police officer found guilty on Monday in a case of police brutality has resigned, according to Meriden's personnel department.
On Monday, Meriden Police Officer Evan Cossette was found guilty of using unreasonable force against Pedro Temich and obstruction of justice by lying in his police report about it.
On Tuesday morning, he notified the personnel department that he was resigning.
"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 last 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."
