US 'cell assault' video released

US prosecutors have released video footage of a sheriff's deputy striking a 15-year-old girl and throwing her onto a cell floor. The video is evidence in the case against Washington state Deputy Paul Schene, accused of using excessive force against the girl in November. The incident began after the girl was arrested in a car theft inquiry. Footage shows the deputy lunge at the girl after she kicks one of her shoes towards him at SeaTac City Hall. "We believe this case is beyond just police misconduct, it's criminal misconduct," King County Prosecutor Daniel Satterberg said. "This is clearly excessive force." Mr Schene, 31, pleaded not guilty to fourth-degree assault on Thursday. The second officer shown in the video was a trainee at the time and is not under investigation. The Associated Press news agency said that according to court documents, the girl complained of breathing problems after the incident and medics were called to check her. Mr Schene's lawyers had asked the judge not to release the video, arguing that it would inflame public opinion and prejudice the deputy's right to a fair trial.