A Hanford resident is speaking out against a local police officer, accusing him of using excessive force during an incident that occurred in 2020. Kaitlyn Chesser, who provided bodycam footage of the event, says she was violently shoved and thrown by Officer Brian Scandura, the same officer now facing charges in the death of 55-year-old Richard Saunders.
In a tearful recount, Chesser shared her experience with the officer during a false arrest that left her physically and emotionally scarred. “You see him shove me into a door, throw me into my car, telling me, ‘Stop fighting’ when I’m obviously not fighting at all,” Chesser said, as she narrated the bodycam footage provided by her attorney. One clip appears to show Scandura placing his hands around her neck, eventually pinning her to the ground in front of her husband and children.
Bruising and Lasting Trauma
Chesser showed images of the bruising she suffered that day and the days following. Though the physical marks have since healed, the psychological impact remains.
Following the incident, Chesser filed a complaint against Scandura and his partner that day, Officer Domingo Bursiaga, accusing them both of excessive force. Despite her complaints, Chesser says the officers were exonerated, with Hanford Police later providing her with a letter explaining their findings.
A New Case Brings Chesser Back Into the Spotlight
The recent arrest of Officer Scandura, charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of Richard Saunders, has prompted Chesser to bring her story to the public once again. The charges against Scandura stem from an incident in which Saunders, allegedly over a minor issue involving a bike light, was thrown to the ground by Scandura, handcuffed, and fatally injured.
Chesser reacted strongly to Saunders’ death, calling it “absolutely ridiculous” that someone could lose their life in such a way. “That is honestly the main reason I stepped forward, because they can’t keep doing this,” she said, referring to the recurring pattern of alleged excessive force by Scandura.
The bodycam footage provided by Chesser may play a significant role in future legal proceedings involving Officer Scandura.
Officer Brian Scandura is set to appear for his arraignment at Kings County Superior Court on September 24. His indictment comes after an extensive investigation into Saunders’ death, with the public now looking closely at his past actions on duty.
As the legal process continues, residents and activists are rallying for greater transparency and accountability within local law enforcement. For many, Chesser’s decision to speak out serves as a pivotal moment in addressing the larger issue of police misconduct in the community.
Take Action: Demand Accountability for Excessive Force
If you or someone you know has been affected by police misconduct and excessive use of force, contact the Police Brutality Center today and we can help explain your legal rights and options so you can move forward on your journey.