Police Chief Flynn comments on arrest of Jeffrey Strasser

MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn made a statement about the arrest of Jeffrey Strasser on Friday, April 13th.

Strasser was arrested near Water and Juneau Streets on the evening of April 12th. Video of the arrest shows an officer holding Strasser to the ground. The officer yells at Strasser to stop resisting — and then strikes him at least twice in the head.

Police Chief Flynn said Friday the use of force officers used on Strasser was consistent with department policy.

Strasser apparently did ask to file a complaint against the officer. That was later learned by the internal investigation into the matter.

According to a statement issued by police early in this case, "A police sergeant observed a reckless driver at Water St. & Juneau Ave. operating a 2008 Lamborghini in a manner that posed a danger to the public in the Water Street area. The sergeant, in a marked police squad, activated his red lights and siren and attempted to stop the vehicle. Strasser refused to stop. Strasser was observed operating with no headlamps, disregarding a stop sign and endangering the public safety by operating the vehicle in a manner that forced other vehicles to take evasive action to avoid collision. As Strasser pulled into a parking lot, he nearly struck multiple pedestrians and uniformed police officers. Strasser eventually stopped and refused to exit the vehicle. Strasser was taken to the ground as officers removed him. One officer delivered focused strikes to gain compliance and control as Strasser was resisting attempts to place handcuffs on him. During the booking process, the 6’0, 200-pound suspect, in response to direct police questioning, stated he was not injured, had no complaint of pain and did not require medical attention. Strasser was placed under arrest and about 90 minutes after the traffic stop, was still more than twice the legal limit with a Blood Alcohol Content of .19. Strasser has a prior OWI conviction from 1999.”

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