Friday, July 13, 2012

Three former police officers accused of beating a black teenage burglary suspect have asked a judge to move the venue for their upcoming trials.

The Houston Chronicle reports that Phil Bryan, Raad Hassan and Drew Ryser appeared in Harris County court Friday. A fourth ex-officer, Andrew Blomberg, was acquitted in May of a misdemeanor charge.

Attorneys for the three officers say publicity from the case and Blomberg's acquittal mean they will not get a fair trial in Harris County.

The four officers were fired and indicted in connection with the alleged beating of then-15-year-old Chad Holley.

Video of the March 2010 shows Holley on the ground surrounded by at least five officers. Police appear to kick and hit his head, abdomen and legs.