Florida Police Sergeant Avoids Trial After Grabbing Female Officer's Throat

Former Sunrise Police Sgt. Christopher Pullease will not face a jury after prosecutors agreed to drop charges against him in exchange for his participation in a pretrial diversion program designed specifically for veterans. The incident occurred on November 19, 2021, when Pullease was caught on body camera grabbing the throat of a female officer who had intervened to prevent him from further engaging with a handcuffed suspect.

The altercation began after officers arrested a man outside a Shop & Save convenience store in Sunrise for allegedly hitting people. As they struggled to secure the suspect inside their cruiser, Pullease arrived and used pepper spray, prompting the younger officer to pull him away from the vehicle. This action infuriated Pullease, who then grabbed the female officer by the throat.

Pullease's behavior was deemed inappropriate and unprofessional by Sunrise Police Chief Anthony Rosa, who stated that such conduct is "disgusting." The chief praised the junior officer for stepping in despite the significant difference in their years of service—Pullease had been with the department for 21 years while the other officer had only two.

Prosecutors will allow Pullease to enter a Veterans Court program if he completes it successfully. This special court is designed to address issues related to military service, such as mental health conditions or substance use disorders, and aims to benefit both the defendant and the community. If Pullease fails to complete the program, which can take up to 18 months, he could still face criminal charges.