Friday, September 26, 2003

A Capitol Police sergeant was fired after authorities say he played a video containing violence and nudity for his 30 officers, at least some of whom said they were offended.

Sgt. Mark Hauck screened "World's Wildest Street Fights, Volume One," on Sept. 1, apparently thinking the video would be an effective training tool for how to deal with brawls, officials said. Some of the officers complained about the graphic violence and images of nude women.

State officials on Monday fired Hauck, a 14-year veteran, and demoted a lieutenant who they said failed to prevent the screening.

"It was a gross and inexcusable lack of judgment that undermines the trust and confidence placed in the Capitol Police officers," said Frank Kane, press secretary for the Department of General Services, which oversees the force.

Hauck referred calls to attorney Sean Welby, who did not immediately return messages.

The firings follow last week's release of a report on sexual misconduct in the Pennsylvania State Police. The report by state Inspector General Donald Patterson called for a disciplinary crackdown on trooper misconduct, a recommendation endorsed by Gov. Ed Rendell. Rendell announced plans last week to hire a consultant to monitor the state police.

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