A former Antioch police officer, Morteza Amiri, has been convicted by a federal jury of one count of deprivation of rights under color of law and one count of falsification of records. The convictions stem from a 2019 incident involving Amiri and a bicyclist identified only as A.A., whom Amiri pulled over allegedly for not having a bicycle light. Evidence presented at the eight-day trial showed that Amiri punched the victim and deployed his K-9, resulting in significant bite injuries to A.A., according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick D. Robbins expressed that Amiri's actions not only transgressed his sworn oath but also weakened the public's trust in law enforcement. Robbins stated, as per the U.S. Attorney's Office, "This appalling conduct erodes public trust in law enforcement. And it weakens law enforcement’s ability to carry out its primary mission of public safety." The jury's decision underscored a stern message that officers who abuse their authority will face consequences.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, which was involved in the investigation leading to Amiri's trial, echoed Robbins' sentiment. FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani said, per the U.S. Attorney's Office, "Amiri’s actions betrayed the trust of the community and undermined the integrity of law enforcement." The FBI has made it clear that they are committed to ensuring that police officers who violate their duties are held accountable.
Details from the trial include evidence that Amiri not only celebrated the K-9's attack with other officers but also shared photographs of the wounds, demonstrating a shocking disregard for human suffering. "you got to see [the K-9] in action lol," Amiri wrote in a text to the officer who had accompanied him on the ride-along. In addition, he falsified a police report to cover his tracks, which led to his conviction on falsification of records, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Amiri is slated to appear for a custody hearing next Tuesday, with his sentencing set for June 3 of the same year. The former officer faces up to 10 years in prison for the civil rights violation and up to 20 years for the record falsification charge.
