A former Hapeville police officer has been charged with using excessive force after allegedly tasing a handcuffed detainee multiple times without cause.

What Happened: Federal authorities say Shevoy Brown, a former officer with the Hapeville Police Department, repeatedly used a stun gun on a man who was arrested for trespassing. The incident took place on June 3, 2024, after the suspect was taken to the department’s headquarters and handcuffed to a bench in a holding cell.

According to prosecutors, the detainee posed no threat, but Brown tased him at least six times, causing injuries that required medical attention. Brown is also accused of filing a false use-of-force report to cover up his actions.

Who Is Handling the Case: Brown was indicted by a federal grand jury on Feb. 12, 2025, and has since been arraigned before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Russell G. Vineyard. He faces charges of using unreasonable force and obstruction of justice.

The case is being investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brent Alan Gray and Bret R. Hobson are prosecuting the case.

Why It Matters: Federal authorities say excessive force cases undermine public trust in law enforcement. Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr. called the allegations a violation of the professionalism expected from police officers.

“People being held under arrest have the right to be treated humanely,” said FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown.

Brown remains innocent unless proven guilty in court. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is handling inquiries related to the case.