3 officers in teen beating video want trials moved

HOUSTON – 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 (http://bit.ly/NHPWFC ) 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.

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Information from: Houston Chronicle, http://www.houstonchronicle.com