A white Largo police officer who appears to be choking a black teenager on video was fired Tuesday after an internal investigation found he violated department policy.

Brian Livernois, 43, used undue force when he grabbed the 17-year-old boy around the neck in April, according to a summary of the internal inquiry by Largo police. The officer, who was hired by the agency in November 2012, also violated a policy pertaining to rude behavior and profane language.

“We take great pride in the positive relationship the Largo Police Department has with our community,” Chief Jeffrey Undestad said in a statement. “Actions like this are not acceptable and violate the public’strust which every employee has worked so hard to earn.”
Livernois could not be reached for comment Wednesday. A representative with the Suncoast Police Benevolent Association declined to comment.

The investigation summary gives this account:
On April 4, Livernois responded to reports of a gun threat and battery after which the suspect was seen running down Melody Lane with several other people.

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