Hollywood Police Lt. Michael McKinney was arrested on December 27 for allegedly hitting and kicking his wife. McKinney, 49, has been relieved of duty and faces a misdemeanor domestic violence related battery charge. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of up to one year in jail.
McKinney was held at Broward Main Jail for one night and was released the following day on his own recognizance. Judge Michael Davis ordered him to keep away from his wife and to avoid alcohol and illegal drugs. The judge also restricted him from possessing firearms. As of last Thursday, McKinney had not yet hired an attorney.
According to the police report, the alleged incident occurred some time past 11:00 p.m. last Tuesday. The Hollywood Police Department received a domestic disturbance call involving McKinney and his wife.
McKinney’s wife allegedly told police that the incident started as a verbal argument that escalated when McKinney got physical and hit her twice on the head followed by a kick in the ribs. She reportedly had bruises on her head and arm, and redness and swelling in her rib area but refused medical treatment.
McKinney was also reportedly injured and had scratch marks along his left arm and a cut on his upper lip.
A spokesperson for the Hollywood Police Department told news sources that McKinney has been relieved of his duties as lieutenant pending the outcome of an ongoing internal investigation. The lieutenant is a 23-year veteran with a clean record.