Top Cutler Bay cop is accused of assaulting his wife

 

According to news reports top Cutler Bay police officer is accused of assaulting his wife during a domestic dispute at their residence early Saturday morning.

Major Richard Pichardo, 43, was arrested Monday at his home at 10800 SW 211th St.

According to the arrest report, Pichardo's wife, Martha, told Miami-Dade police the couple was arguing in their vehicle about domestic issues. The altercation escalated when they arrived home and she refused to give Pichardo his keys, claiming he was too drunk to drive, the report said.
 
They continued arguing in their bedroom, at which point Pichardo allegedly grabbed his wife by her arms and slammed her onto the mattress, causing her to fall off the bed onto the bedroom floor.

According to the report, Pichardo then grabbed her by the arms and placed her onto the bed, pushing her against the headboard and placing his forehead on hers while applying pressure. Again, Pichardo requested his keys, the report said.

The incident ended when he became ill and eventually fell asleep, the report said.

Pichardo's wife had a minor bruise on her upper right tricep that was consistent with her story, the arresting officer wrote in his report.

Pichardo was charged with simple domestic battery and transported to a Miami-Dade County jail.

Pichardo, 43, a 24-year veteran, is relieved of duty with pay.

Last October Richard Pichardo, was promoted to the rank of a major.