photo of bodycam arrest of suspect that resulted in the indictment of YPD Sgt. Hector Cartagena
By Dan Murphy
The story about Yonkers Police Sergeant Hector Cartagena, and his recent indictment by Westchester DA Mimi Rocah for assault stemming from an arrest caught on video continues, with the Yonkers Police Captains, Lieutenants and Sergeants Association supporting Cartagena and calling out Mayor Mike Spano and Police Commissioner Chris Sapienza for not giving him due process.
The statement from Det. Capt. Michael Hanley, President, Yonkers CLSA, reads, “The members of the Yonkers Police Captains, Lieutenants, and Sergeants Association fully support Detective Sergeant Hector Cartagena. We ask you all to remember that this decorated, long serving officer is innocent until proven guilty.
“This pursuit started with a suspect who stole a civilian vehicle and proceeded to lead numerous police units on a high speed chase throughout the City of Yonkers. The perpetrator intentionally caused accidents with several police vehicles that resulted in injuries to police officers. The perpetrator’s actions throughout this pursuit endangered the lives of numerous citizens of the City of Yonkers. The Detective Sergeant was performing his official duties in attempting to subdue a violent felon who was resisting attempts to be taking into custody.
“Every person in this great country is afforded a right to due process. Unfortunately, based on the statements issued by Mayor Spano and Commissioner Sapienza, Detective Sergeant Cartagena has been denied this right. Their rush to judgement on a 25 year veteran of the YPD with an honorable record is disappointing, and these comments could have a negative impact on his right to a fair trial.
“The Yonkers CLSA looks forward to Detective Sergeant Cartagena’s opportunity to present all the facts of this case. We believe that after a full review of all the evidence, Detective Sergeant Cartagena will be exonerated of all charges.”
Det. Capt. Michael Hanley
President
Yonkers CLSA
