Cell Phone Video Captures Springdale Police "Taser Party"

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – New cell phone video allegedly shows Springdale Borough Police officers having a "Taser party."

"Ready, this is how you tase somebody," an officer says in the video.

The video is described as disturbing by sources investigating the activities of the Springdale Borough Police Department.

Two former Springdale officers -- Mark Thom and Jeremy Liotta – are seen having what is described as a "Taser party" inside the department, with another officer capturing the incident on his cell phone.

This incident was never investigated, no one was ever disciplined.

Right now, former officer Liotta is facing multiple charges, including theft, impersonating a public servant and drug possession charges.

Former Sgt. Thom is facing a federal sentencing hearing in the next few months. He pleaded guilty to civil rights violations, accused of beating Gary Cahill several times.

"It was really bad when I was getting Tased," Cahill said. "It was the worst thing I've ever felt. I felt like I was dying. I really did, that's how bad it was."

Thom has a history in court. A few months ago the borough settled a lawsuit with former County Police Officer Ray Rhabos for nearly $200,000 -- Thom accused of roughing him up.

"Why can't we give the guy a second chance? Everyone deserves a second chance," said Springdale Borough councilman Dave Finley.

The borough has rehired Thom on a road crew. Council members have not seen the "Taser party" video, but they still fully support Thom.

"Maybe he was wrongfully accused," Finley said.

He says even though Thom pleaded guilty, "He pled guilty, yeah. You keep harping on the pled guilty. Are you asking me if he's a good man or did he plead guilty? It's an obvious thing: he accepted a plea bargain. I'm telling you he's a good man in the eyes of the residents of Springdale. He has two young children and we take care of our own."

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