BRIEFS: Brutality case goes to arbitrator

The suit, which is in the federal arbitration system, will be heard before a three-lawyer panel. In the suit, which dates back to August 1991, Hargrove alleges that he was stopped by University Police officers Jaret Fernandez and Tracy Thomas while driving by 38th and Mellon streets. His complaint alleges that Hargrove was stopped and placed under arrest without any justification or cause. He was also allegedly struck on the head, neck, back, face and arms, kicked and hit with flashlights and nightsticks. The suit also alleges that he was taken to 16th Police District where he was held for three hours and finally released without being charged with any crime. Hargrove claims that his Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments rights were violated and he is asking for in excess of $50,000. Milton Valez, attorney for the city's solicitor's office, said he thinks the trial will last two days. Today's hearing marks the sixth arbitration date for Hargrove, who had filed five other times for continuances. --Joshua Fineman