Prince George’s County Police Department

Prince George's County Police Officer on Trial for Allegedly Threatening Man

A Prince George's County police officer accused of pointing a gun at the head of a Bowie, Maryland, man went to trial Tuesday.

Cellphone video played in court showed Officer Jenchesky Santiago saying, "I dare you to f---ing fight me, son," while pointing his service weapon at William Cunningham's head.

Cunningham and his cousin were sitting in a car parked in front of his Bowie home in May 2014 when Santiago approached and asked why they were there. After an exchange of words, Cunningham decided to go inside, but Santiago ordered him back in the car.

A witness testified Santiago also yelled that Prince George's County officers shoot people.

In his opening statement, Santiago's attorney said, "I don't believe my client is a good police officer or demonstrated good police work, but I also don't believe he is a criminal."

Santiago is charged with assault and misconduct in office.

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