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Fullerton Will Launch Probe Into Homeless Man's Beating Death

FULLERTON (CBS) — The Fullerton City Council has agreed to launch a special investigation into a controversial police beating that led to the death of a homeless man.

Kelly Thomas, 37, suffered from schizophrenia. He died five days after suffering severe neck and head injuries when he was arrested on July 5.

An angry crowd of Fullerton residents chanted and shouted at the mayor and council members during Tuesday night's meeting.

The council approved a contract that could cost the city as much as $70,000 to hire independent investigator Michael Gennaco.

Gennaco will review Thomas' death, as well as the department's policies and procedures.

Thomas' father says the independent review should bring some clarity to the situation.

Fullerton police confronted Thomas while they were investigating reports of car break-ins near Fullerton's transit center.

Witnesses and Thomas' family say six police officers beat, kicked and used a stun gun on him.

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