Fort Worth Officer Reinstated After Successful Appeal of Excessive Force Dismissal

Fort Worth Police Officer Reinstated After Appeal

Fort Worth, Texas – A Fort Worth police officer, dismissed from the department for allegedly using excessive force during an arrest in June 2024, has successfully appealed his termination. Authorities announced on Monday that Officer Matthew Krueger’s dismissal has been overturned, allowing him to return to duty.

Officer Krueger was terminated in December 2024 following an incident that garnered significant public attention. During a response to a hit-and-run incident in the 1000 block of Foch Street, Krueger was accused of using unnecessary force against a woman named Carolyn Rodriguez, who was recording the scene on her mobile device. The encounter escalated, ultimately leading to Rodriguez requiring medical help after the arrest.

Incident Overview

The situation unfolded on June 23, 2024, shortly before 3:30 p.m., when police responded to reports of a possible intoxicated driver involved in a hit-and-run accident. As Officer Krueger attempted to manage the scene, Rodriguez approached and began filming with her phone. According to the official report, Krueger ordered her to move across the street multiple times. Upon her refusal to comply, he initiated an arrest.

The force used by Krueger during this interaction resulted in Rodriguez sustaining injuries that necessitated hospitalization. After undergoing treatment, she was charged with several offenses, including interference with public duties and resisting arrest. Notably, Rodriguez is known for her YouTube channel, where she documents various encounters with law enforcement.

Outcome of the Appeal

Following Krueger’s termination, a thorough investigation by both the Fort Worth police’s Major Case and Internal Affairs units concluded that his actions during the June incident did not adhere to department protocol. However, after a review process, it was determined that the grounds for his dismissal were unfounded, leading to the appeal’s success.

The Fort Worth Police Officers’ Association (FWPOA) expressed their support for Krueger, praising the reversal of his termination. In a recent social media announcement, the association stated, “We applaud the common sense decision and are thrilled with the decision in Officer Matthew Krueger’s appeal.” They emphasized that the hearing examiner found no justification for any disciplinary action against Krueger.

The FWPOA’s statement highlighted that the findings were consistent with conclusions drawn by the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office and the Fort Worth Police Department’s Use of Force Committee, effectively vindicating Krueger’s stance that he acted in accordance with the law and departmental policies.

Reactions from Authorities

The Fort Worth Police Department has not issued a specific statement concerning Officer Krueger’s case but acknowledged his right to appeal the termination. The reinstatement of Krueger may signify a shift in how incidents of alleged excessive force are handled within law enforcement agencies.

This case continues to highlight important discussions about police procedures and the appropriate use of force, as community members and officials reflect on the implications of such incidents in law enforcement practices.