Former Warren police officer Matthew Rodriguez has been sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison for using excessive force against a 19-year-old Black detainee in June 2023. Video footage, widely viewed by the public, shows Rodriguez punching the teen and slamming his head to the floor while the victim posed no threat. Rodriguez's actions were provoked by a verbal insult, and he subsequently attempted to cover up the incident with a false report. U.S. District Judge Jonathan J.C. Grey emphasized the importance of respecting humanity regardless of power. Rodriguez has a history of violent behavior, including an incident in 2017 involving a student. The sentencing has brought renewed attention to issues of police misconduct and accountability.