(RNS) A New York City police lieutenant who reported seeing a demon at police headquarters is suing to reclaim his gun and badge, which he said were seized by supervisors because of his “excessive” religious practices.
Dominic Maglione, a desk officer at Brooklyn’s 90th Precinct, was admitted to a hospital more than two years ago and told psychiatrists that he was praying for 10-hour periods and fasting twice a week, according to the Associated Press.
Maglione lost 40 pounds over six months because of fasting and urinated on himself rather than ceasing prayer to use the restroom, according to a police board medical report.
At the hospital Maglione, 44, told a medical professional that he had once seen a demon at the police headquarters, according to the report.
“The Medical Board believes that the lieutenant cannot be allowed to be in possession of any weapons since he feels subject to God’s will to do what God wants him to do even if he destroys himself,” the medical report said, according to the AP.
The police medical report cited “significant psychological findings” that should keep Maglione from “performing the full duties of a New York City police officer,” the report said.
Maglione, who is a 22-year-old police veteran, said officials have “wrongfully and illegally” taken his badge and his gun because of his religious beliefs, according to the AP, in a violation of his First Amendment Rights. The lawsuit, filed Feb. 19, seeks to return Maglione to full police work.