Former Paterson New Jersey police Officer Ruben McAusland admitted in federal court that he dealt drugs stole evidence from crime scenes, and "viciously attacked" a hospital patient all while on duty and in uniform, between October 2017 and April 2018.Officer
McAusland and several other Paterson cops have been accused of misconduct in recent months after an FBI investigation concluded in April.
Special agent in charge Gregory W. Ehrie of the Newark FBI field office said, "Police Officers take a solemn oath to uphold the law and to protect the public. [McAusland] not only violated his pledge but tarnished the reputation of all law enforcement by his grievous lawlessness."
Court testimony given by a Department of Justice official stated that McAusland attacked a wheelchair-bound man who was in the hospital for an attempted suicide.
The DOJ officer said, "McAusland admitted that during the encounter, he pushed the victim and punched him in the face."
McAusland also admitted to striking the victim twice across the face while filming it on his cellphone.
US Attorney Craig Carpenito said in a statement.
"He dealt drugs, stole from a crime scene, and viciously attacked an individual who contacted the Paterson Police Department rightfully expecting to receive assistance and protection from McAusland. The people of Paterson and all of New Jersey deserve better."
McAusland's attorney John Whipple, told the Paterson Press, "He's embarrassed and ashamed that he violated his oath as a police officer."
The ex-Paterson cop could be sentenced to 50 years behind bars in October.
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