Lawrence police officer accused of excessive force

LAWRENCE, Ind. (WISH) - A Lawrence police officer is facing charges after an investigation into the possible use of excessive force in an August arrest.

Gabriel Slaybaugh was charged with battery and official misconduct. He’s been with the department for seven years.

On Aug. 25, Slaybaugh arrested 41-year-old Robert Riedling on preliminary charges of theft, auto theft and unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle.

Officers were originally called to a Walmart near East 56th Street and Pendleton Pike on accusations that Riedling was shoplifting. Slaybaugh went to the scene to assist another officer who was already there, according to a police report.

Court documents indicate surveillance video shows Slaybaugh arrived and kicked Riedling in the head while Riedling was on his knees. The police report said Riedling was taken to Wishard Memorial Hospital for “complaint of pain.”

Lawrence Police Department officials said Slaybaugh was put on administrative leave at the beginning of the investigation into his behavior. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department investigated for Lawrence. Slaybaugh will remain on leave until the end of his case.