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The Kingston Police Department is facing a federal lawsuit alleging excessive force during the arrest of a woman and her father in November 2023. The lawsuit, filed by Valerie Welch and her father Ronald Welch, claims they were arrested without cause outside Valerie's home on Hoffman Street. According to the lawsuit, Officer Nolan Secreto arrested Valerie for sitting in an illegally parked car and allegedly used excessive force when she questioned his actions and attempted to record the incident on her phone. When Ronald expressed concern for his daughter, Secreto allegedly threatened to use a taser and arrested him as well. Both were charged with disorderly conduct, but the charges were dropped in 2024.
The lawsuit accuses the Kingston Police Department of failing to properly train its officers and fostering a culture indifferent to misconduct. Valerie Welch was treated for head and elbow injuries following the incident. The Welches are seeking unspecified damages for physical and emotional distress.
Kingston Police Chief Egidio Tinti stated that the department became aware of the allegations when Valerie filed a complaint in August 2023. The Kingston Police Commission reviewed the complaint and found the claims to be unfounded. Officer Secreto remains employed with the department. The case highlights the issue of excessive force, which, as explained by The VanNoy Firm, is a violation of constitutional rights and can lead to legal action against the police department.