In aspiring to a life of free money, few would consider joining the Milwaukee police. For 34-year-old Officer Robert Henry, that path was like winning the lotto, and all he had to do was pummel an unarmed black man.

In March 2002, Billy Miles was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct. In custody, Miles made "several hand gestures" toward Henry. A station video shows Henry responding by shoving Miles against the wall, choking him and throwing him onto a table. When others pulled Henry away, he flexed and patted his bicep.

Previously disciplined for driving drunk, Henry was fired. He appealled to the Fire and Police Commission, won re-instatement and immediately applied for stress-related disability. He was awarded $3,293.59 (U.S.) a month until his retirement pension starts, along with $23,300 (U.S.) up front for his troubles. According to commission chairman Robert Welch, Henry's actions "reflected what he was taught at the academy."

Miles was sentenced to nine months for disorderly conduct and for his role in being beaten.

» Scott Saxon