After judge’s initial denial, indicted cop gets gun back

Published 1:30 am Saturday, July 9, 2016

Associated Press

SEATTLE — After an initial denial, a Washington state police officer accused of using excessive force will be allowed to possess a firearm for work while awaiting his trial.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Brian Tsuchida on Tuesday refused to restore Officer Nicholas Hogan’s right to carry a firearm because indicted defendants by law are barred from possessing them.

On Friday, the judge reversed course due to an exception in the law specifically for law enforcement officers.

Hogan was on paid administrative leave after being indicted on a charge that he pepper-sprayed a man who was under arrest and restrained.