Orlando police officer fired in beating of man in handcuffs

Police say man also facing battery, perjury charges

ORLANDO, Fla. – An Orlando police officer was fired after police say he was caught on video beating a man in handcuffs.

Officer William Escobar was charged last month for battery and perjury after video showed Escobar punching and kicking Refus Holloway in March of 2014.

Holloway claimed he was trying to break up a fight when police got there. The video, shot by Holloway's sister, shows Holloway not fighting Escobar.

Police Chief John Mina said Escobar not only broke the law, but violated police protocol.

"The actions of Officer Escobar that night do not reflect the overall actions, performance and behavior of the Orlando Police Department or our commitment and dedication to keeping this community safe," Mina said. "Effective today, William Escobar was terminated from the Orlando Police Department."

Escobar could face up to a year in jail.


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