The New Rochelle NAACP is calling on city leaders to fire police officer Michael Vaccaro, who was just acquitted of police brutality-related charges.

Vaccaro was acquitted Thursday of two counts of misdemeanor attempted assault for punching Malik Fogg in February 2021.

The activists say the video of the incident speaks for itself. Vaccaro has nearly 19 other disciplinary actions, and they say he shouldn't be back on the streets.

Vaccaro's attorney says the officer was justified in his use of force by helping other officers arrest Fogg.

"It was in February of 2021, there were anti-police protests, and this was a political indictment," said Andrew Quinn, defense attorney.

The attorney says Vaccaro began punching when Fogg tried to punch him after hitting the windshield of a car belonging to the officer's mom.

Vaccaro has been on paid suspension, but his attorney expects him back on the force now after his acquittal.

A city spokeswoman says Vaccaro won't be restored to full duty nor will he be fired. Vaccaro will stay suspended until the department finishes its disciplinary proceedings.