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OPD starts internal investigation into excessive force case

After inconsistencies in an Orlando Police Department's sergeant's sworn statement involving an excessive force case, Chief John Mina opened up an internal investigation.

Orlando police Sgt. Michael Faulkner’s interaction with theft suspect Robert Liese was recorded by his department’s camera in a holding cell.

The recording shows Liese asked Faulkner for medical treatment after he was kneed in the abdomen by Officer Peter Delio in March. Liese had to have his spleen removed.

Liese: “Can I have medical attention please?”

Faulkner: “What do you need medical attention for?”

Delio was charged with felony battery.

The video shows Liese ask for paramedics for more than 20 times in more than 90 minutes.

But under oath, Faulkner told OPD’s internal affairs that Liese repeatedly refused medical treatment.

Channel 9’s Kathi Belich first exposed inconsistencies in Faulkner’s statements.

She brought her findings to state investigators to ask if they’re looking into it and they referred her back to Orlando police.

The department later said it would investigate.

“There’s more than enough evidence to open up a criminal and professional standards investigation as to whether or not this officer lied under oath,” said WFTV legal analyst Bill Sheaffer. "The video tells the tale and on the video we see that this defendant repeatedly asked for medical attention. It's not a matter of 'Do we just take his word for it?'"

Liese is suing the department for more than $75,000. His lawyer believes the state attorney should investigate Faulkner.

Faulkner has been on the force for 12 years.

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