Reported by: Bob Aaron
Videographer: WCHS-TV
Web Producer: Bob Aaron
July 6, 2009 5:21pm
Eyewitness News Photo
A former police officer in Montgomery has pleaded guilty in federal court to violating the rights of a mixed-race couple stemming from a September 2008 traffic stop.
Thirty-one-year-old Matthew Leavitt of South Charleston faces up to two years in prison and a $200,000 fine when sentenced Sept. 24 before U.S. District Judge Joseph Goodwin.
Leavitt pleaded guilty Monday. He was charged last month with beating Twan Reynolds and lacking probable cause to arrest his wife, Lauren Santella-Reynolds, on a charge of driving under the influence.
Leavitt and Santella-Reynolds are white. Reynolds is black.
A lawsuit filed by the couple accuses Leavitt of using pepper spray on Reynolds, licking his wife's neck while she was handcuffed during an interrogation, and making derogatory comments.
W.Va. gov urges roof checks, new storm approaches February 09, 2010 10:26 AM As parts of West Virginia brace for more snow, Gov. Joe Manchin is urging communities to carefully inspect the roofs of schools and other public buildings.
Historic refinery closing again February 09, 2010 12:18 PM The owners of a historic refinery in south central Kentucky say they are shutting down operations.
Ohio governor lashes out at critics of rail plan February 09, 2010 11:41 AM Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland is lashing out at critics of the state's plan to use $400 million in federal stimulus money for a startup rail service, calling them "cheerleaders for failure."
Fugitive Files
Wanted: Feb. 2, 2010 • You Can Help! First degree robbery, burglary, assault, failure to appear for court following fleeing in a vehicle while DUI, and credit card forgery.
Behind The Kitchen Door
February 4, 2010 Bob Evans-South Ridge, Los Agaves, Asian Grill, Smokey Rib House, Mr. G's Wings are on the list. Find out who has violations and who gets a big thumbs up!
Send email to news@wchstv.com for information or comments concerning WCHS-TV Eyewitness News.
