FBI reviewing actions of police officer accused of using excessive force at Heinz Field

PITTSBURGH — A day after a judge dropped all charges filed against a Pittsburgh police officer accused of using excessive force during an arrest at the WPIAL football championship games at Heinz Field, the FBI has announced it is reviewing the officer’s actions, Target 11 confirmed.

https://twitter.com/WPXITarget11/status/694665368661549057

“We are aware of the incident, and we are reviewing the matter in coordination with the United States Attorney's Office as well as the District Attorney's Office,” FBI Supervisory Special Agent Gregory Heeb told Target 11’s Rick Earle.

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Pittsburgh police Sgt. Stephen Matakovich, who has been on the Pittsburgh police force for more than 20 years, was charged with one count of simple assault and one count of official oppression.

Sources told Target 11 that Matakovich was off duty but working a security detail at Heinz Field on Nov. 28 when he encountered an intoxicated fan, Gabriel Despres, and arrested him.

The incident was captured on the stadium’s surveillance cameras.

In Matakovich’s hearing, a use-of-force expert testified that Despres was not in an aggressive stance but Matakovich’s attorney disputed the claim. A judge dropped all the charges filed against Matakovich on Monday.

• Charges dropped against officer accused of using excessive force during Heinz Field arrest

• Pittsburgh officer charged with assault for arrest made at Heinz Field

Pittsburgh Police Chief Cameron McLay on Wednesday told Target 11 that he supports refiling charges.

https://twitter.com/WPXITarget11/status/694936154139971584

According to court documents, Despres still faces charges for his actions that night, including aggravated assault.

Matakovich's status with the Pittsburgh police force remains unclear.

Cox Media Group