Former Hickory police officer accused of excessive force

HICKORY — Former Hickory police officer Robert George is accused of using excessive force during an arrest. He was put on leave after an incident last fall and terminated in January.

On Tuesday Eyewitness News reporter Dave Faherty uncovered that a grand jury in Catawba County has indicted him in that alleged assault. The Catawba County Clerk would not give him that indictment.

George worked for the Hickory police for more than 15 years, rising to the rank of patrol sergeant. He was put on leave after a woman in his custody was injured in mid-November.  Law enforcement forces said the incident was caught on tape by a camera outside the Police Department.

In a statement released Tuesday, the Office of the Chief of Police said, "George violated the departmental policies governing use of force, treatment of persons in custody and unsatisfactory performance."

On Tuesday afternoon George met with his attorney, Lisa Dubs, who said he denies he used any improper procedure or force in this case.

""Obviously it is difficult for him and his family, he's a long time veteran of law enforcement.   It is especially difficult for a law enforcement officer to have their judgment questioned," Dubs said.

His attorney said George intends to turn himself in once he is served the indictment, which could happen as early as Wednesday.

WSOC