Chicago Police Officer Charged with Domestic Violence After Alleged Assault on Girlfriend

A Chicago police officer has been Charged with domestic battery after allegedly beating and strangling his girlfriend last week.

Joseph Vecchio, 31, turned himself in on Friday and was charged with aggravated domestic battery, according to the Chicago Police Department (CPD).

Court documents detail the alleged incident, which occurred on Tuesday. Vecchio allegedly punched the victim multiple times in the face, then strangled her with both hands before kneeing her in the face.

The victim suffered multiple injuries, including lacerations and bruises. Documents further alleged that Vecchio made the victim clean up bloody sheets while he stood by, even threatening to kill her after placing a firearm on a counter.

A judge granted an order of protection for the victim against Vecchio. He was denied release during his hearing on Saturday.

This is not Vecchio's first domestic violence-related incident. Court documents reveal there have been two prior incidents, but no charges were filed.

CPD relieved Vecchio of his police powers in October 2020 after an investigation by the Office of the Inspector General found he was under investigation for a string of civil rights violations, including improper searches and conduct unbecoming of an officer.

Vecchio is due back in court on Friday, August 28.