Phoenix Police: Officer who struck handcuffed suspect has been fired

PHOENIX - Phoenix Police officials say an officer who used physical force on a handcuffed shoplifting suspect has been fired.

In a brief statement to FOX 10, Sgt. Tommy Thompson with Phoenix Police said Tim Baiardi has been fired, and is no longer employed by Phoenix Police. Baiardi's firing is believed to have happened on Wednesday.

According to earlier statements by Phoenix Police, the incident happened at a store along the 5300 block of W. Indian School Road on December 8, 2018, but police were notified of the incident by the Maricopa County Attorney's Office on February 20, 2019. Baiardi was working off-duty at the time when a 22-year-old man was arrested for shoplifting. The 22-year-old had fought with the officer while being taken into custody, and video provided to Phoenix Police show the officer striking the 22-year-old.

Baiardi, according to Phoenix Police officials at the time, delivered two to three knee strikes and four to five closed fist strikes against the suspect. However, subsequent transfer of electronic information omitted dashes from booking paperwork concerning the suspect's arrest, resulting in court records showing 23 knee strikes and 45 closed fist strikes being delivered.

In May, police officials say Maricopa County prosecutors have filed a direct complaint against Baiardi, which indicates the County Attorney's office is moving forward with prosecution.

Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams released a statement on the incident in May.

Baiardi was a 17-year veteran with the department.