Conn. officers plead not guilty to abuse charges

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — Four Connecticut police officers accused of violating the civil rights of Hispanic residents have pleaded not guilty.

The East Haven officers were arrested Tuesday on charges they used excessive force against illegal immigrants and covered up abuses in the New Haven suburb.

A federal indictment says people were assaulted while they were handcuffed, Latino businesses were unlawfully searched and people who tried to report misconduct were harassed.

The accused are Officers Dennis Spaulding, David Cari and Jason Zullo. Also charged is Sgt. John Miller, president of the police union.

Three defendants were released on bond. Zullo was ordered to remain in custody until another hearing Thursday because he was not immediately able to post bond.