Ramos, Cicinelli Plead Not Guilty To Charges Stemming From Kelly Thomas Beating Death

SANTA ANA (CBS) — Two Fullerton police officers pleaded not guilty Friday morning to charges stemming from the beating death of a homeless man.

Manuel Ramos, 38, and Jay Cicinelli, 40, are charged in the death of Kelly Thomas who died after being taken off life support following the July 5, 2011 confrontation with the officers.

Ramos is facing second degree murder charges and Cicinelli is charged with involuntary manslaughter and excessive force.

Both men are currently free on bail.

Ramos was fired from the Fullerton Police Department on July 3. Cicinelli is on unpaid administrative leave.

Ramos and Cicinelli are due back in court July 27.