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Maplewood officers won't face charges for violent arrest

This video frame taken by KTVI-TV shows Maplewood Police kicking and punching Edmon Burns, 33, after three police cruisers ramed his van after Burns refused to stop. Police initally were watching Burns casing a gas station. (KTVI-TV via UPI)
This video frame taken by KTVI-TV shows Maplewood Police kicking and punching Edmon Burns, 33, after three police cruisers ramed his van after Burns refused to stop. Police initally were watching Burns casing a gas station. (KTVI-TV via UPI)

By AP/KWMU

St. Louis, MO – Three Maplewood police officers will not face federal charges in a violent arrest last year that was captured on live television.

The Justice Department says the video isn't enough evidence to charge the officers; state charges are also unlikely.

The three Maplewood cops, along with a St. Louis City officer, chased Edmon Burns through the two cities before they were seen on video punching and kicking him during his arrest.

A letter from the Justice Department to Maplewood's city manager did not announce the fate of a fourth officer, Ray Knight of the St. Louis department, who was also involved in the arrest.

Burns led police on a chase from Maplewood into St. Louis on January 30th, 2006, then tried to run away.

Civil rights leader the Reverend BT Rice calls the decision disappointing.

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