The Meriden Police Department

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A picture of a worker in the Thomas Brocuglio’s company van

In a shocking incident captured on dashcam footage from Thomas Brocuglio’s company van, an off-duty Connecticut cop, identified as Corporal Allen Ganter of the Meriden Police Department, was seen punching a driver after a minor traffic altercation. The altercation occurred at a red light in Rocky Hill back in December, as reported by NBC Connecticut.

Brocuglio, 37, had honked at Ganter, who was stopped at the red light, for not turning right as legally permissible. Ganter, 57, then exited his vehicle, a Toyota Tacoma, and approached Brocuglio’s vehicle while waving his badge.

In a heated exchange, Ganter shouted at Brocuglio, asserting that turning right on red was prohibited at that intersection. Brocuglio countered by pointing out the sign’s instruction to “Stop here on red” rather than indicating a “No turn on red” rule. He also accused Ganter of being distracted by his phone.

The Meriden Police Department: A Lesson in Professionalism and Roadway Safety

A picture of police vehicle from the Meriden Police Department

The situation escalated further when Ganter reached into Brocuglio’s car and punched him in the face, prompting Brocuglio to call 911 to report the assault. Responding officers documented swelling and redness on Brocuglio’s cheek, indicating the severity of the altercation.

Subsequently, an internal affairs investigation was launched by the Meriden Police Department, leading to Ganter being charged with breach of peace and third-degree assault. As a consequence of the disciplinary action, Ganter was permanently removed from his role as a School Resource Officer and suspended for five days without pay. Additionally, he will undergo mandatory de-escalation training for the next three years.

This incident underscores the importance of maintaining professionalism and adhering to departmental protocols, even in off-duty situations, to uphold public trust and ensure the safety of all individuals involved on the roadways.