CLEVELAND (AP) - A Cleveland police officer who fatally shot an unarmed suspect after a break-in has pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge of negligent homicide.
Authorities say Patrolman Alan Buford shot 18-year-old Brandon Jones in the chest when Buford and his partner tried to arrest Jones outside a store in March 2015.
Buford pleaded not guilty Tuesday and was released on a personal bond. The case is being heard in Cleveland Municipal Court after his indictment last month by a Cuyahoga (ky-uh-HOH’-guh) County grand jury.
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Buford’s attorney didn’t return telephone calls seeking comment.
County Prosecutor Tim McGinty has said it’s unreasonable for officers to use deadly force without a reason to think someone is a threat to police or the public.
Buford is on restricted duty while his case is pending.
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