Zalmy Trappler: Crown Heights Beating Victim Had Made Threats

The volunteer guard who called police on the man who was beaten by responding officers at the ALIYA Institute says the authorities were contacted because of threats made by the victim.

Zalmy Trappler, a volunteer guard at the ALIYA Institute in Crown Heights says he found a man, later identified as Ehud Haleavy, sleeping naked in the center. Trappler says he asked Haleavy to get dressed and leave, but was verbally threatened.

Trappler then contacted the police. He says Haleavy threatened the officers as well.

Surveillance video appears to show the officers beating Haleavy.

Haleavy has been charged with assault, trespassing, resisting arrest and harassment. One of the officers allegedly involved has been placed on modified duty.