CCRB finds excessive force in James Blake takedown, recommends NYPD

The NYPD’s use of force was deemed by the Civilian Grievance Evaluation Board Wed.to be “excessive” against former tennis show star James Blake, in accordance to the city agency.

A second officer abused his authority in connection with the incident, the Civilian Complaint Review Board said in a letter to Mr. Blake.

Blake was tossed to the ground outside a Midtown hotel last month by an officer looking for someone else.

The day after the incident New York City Police Commissioner William Bratton apologized to the tennis star and said he was concerned over the level of force used to arrest Blake who was mistakenly identified as a suspect in a fraud ring.

Blake, who is black, was surrounded by six plainclothes officers while waiting for a vehicle to take him to the U.S. Tennis Open. “I have complete respect for the principle of due process and appreciate the efforts of the C.C.R.B.to advance this investigation”.

Frascatore was placed on desk duty.

The board recommended the officer, James Frascatore, face departmental charges that could lead to his suspension or dismissal, the New York Times reports. In the end, Commissioner Bratton will have the final say on whether the officers will be disciplined, and if so in what form.

Blake, a Yonkers native who had called for Frascatore to be fired, thanked the board for its ruling.

A lawyer for Frascatore did not immediately return a call on Wednesday seeking comment.

“Our commitment remains to be a fair and vigilant resource for all people who have complaints about police misconduct, and to judge the cases based on thorough, even-handed investigations which serve the public and officers alike”, she said. Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association President Patrick Lynch said it was clear Frascatore did not intend to harm Blake.

The NYPD’s internal review of the case is ongoing.