Two Connecticut troopers charged with kidnapping, assault
WETHERSFIELD, Conn. — Two Connecticut state troopers have been charged in connection with the beating of a man in Wethersfield while off-duty.
Rupert Laird, of Manchester, and Xavier Cruz, of Wethersfield, were arraigned Tuesday in New Britain Superior Court on charges of first-degree kidnapping with a firearm, second-degree assault with a firearm and deprivation of rights by force or threat.
Court documents say Laird was upset that the man improperly touched a woman Laird knows and Laird beat the victim in Cruz's home while Cruz watched on Feb. 18.
State police have suspended Cruz and Laird.
Cruz posted $750,000 bail and Laird was detained on the same bail amount. A judge ordered them under house arrest if they post bail.
Laird's lawyer says Laird was motivated by a desire to protect the woman.
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