Prosecutors in Florida will drop criminal charges against a former Sunrise police sergeant if he completes a pretrial diversion program. The charges stem from a 2021 arrest where he was recorded grabbing a female officer by the throat.
Prosecutors said they will dismiss the case against Christopher Pullease once he finishes the program, which may last 18 months or more. Pullease had faced counts including battery on a law enforcement officer and tampering with evidence.
Defense attorneys requested transfer to Veterans Court under expanded Florida rules that allow entry when victims do not object. Pullease must meet eligibility tied to military service-related conditions.
The incident occurred on November 19, 2021, outside a convenience store. Body camera footage showed Pullease grabbing the junior officer after she pulled him back from a handcuffed suspect. Then-Chief Anthony Rosa called the conduct disgusting and unprofessional.
Pullease retired from the department in 2022. Failure to complete the program could return him to criminal court.