SPRINGFIELD, Mass. -- Police in Springfield say an officer who was arrested on a domestic assault and battery charge was trying to prevent his teenage daughter from joining a gang.
Officer Jose Diaz entered a not guilty plea Monday at his arraignment in Springfield District Court and was released on his own recognizance.
Sgt. John Delaney, a police spokesman, said Diaz was arrested at his home Friday after an altercation with his 19-year-old daughter.
Delaney told The Republican newspaper that Diaz was upset that his daughter might join a gang, but did not intend to hurt her. The young woman had some redness on her neck and what appeared to be a small bruise.
Diaz has been placed on inside duty pending an internal investigation by police.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
Woman's death ruled suicide; family calls for investigation Two H1N1-related deaths reported in Massachusetts Driver in Lowell hit-and-run accident could face charges New town moderator makes costly mistake Tom Cruise thanks city, but may need lesson in landmarks Owl takes up residence in Faneuil Hall Christmas tree Teens protest disciplinary action at Cape Cod high school Logan Airport joins in the fight against the flu