New York

Ex-Suffolk Police Chief James Burke Mulls Plea Deal in Alleged Beating

Federal prosecutors have offered a plea deal to a former suburban New York police chief charged with beating a suspect and then coercing officers to lie about it.

The offer for former Suffolk County Police Chief James Burke was revealed Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Central Islip. Sources close to the case tell NBC 4 New York that Burke would spend 41 to 51 months behind bars if he takes the deal.

Burke pleaded not guilty in December to charges of deprivation of civil rights and conspiracy to commit obstruction of justice. He is being held without bail.

Prosecutors said Burke took revenge against the thief who stole sex toys, pornography and other items from his department-issued SUV.

Defense attorney Joseph Conway says he will discuss the offer with his client. He said as of now he is planning to take the case to trial in March.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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