Clarksville captain says trooper smashed pacifier into 4-month-old; POST rolls case to next month

Charles Gill, captain of the Clarksville Police Department, told the Tennessee POST Commission that on June 5, 2025, officers responding to a call found injuries to a 4-month-old’s face and that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation charged the child’s father, Mr. Barreto, with child abuse. “He made the decision to smash the paci into the child's face, causing the injuries,” Gill said, summarizing the criminal investigation.

Gill said his internal review, opened at the direction of Chief Burda, found evidence of policy violations and that the department proceeded with termination. “I forwarded to the chief, advising him that I did feel there was evidence of policy violations,” Gill said.

Commission legal counsel, Merabet Nikesley, told the respondent that because criminal charges are pending the commission could allow a pending-litigation agreement — effectively pausing POST certification proceedings while the criminal case proceeds. The unnamed respondent told the commission he would consider the option and referenced participation in a treatment court that could result in an expungement if completed.

Commissioner Wilbur moved to roll the matter to next month pending a signed agreed order of suspension for the pending litigation; the motion was seconded and carried. The commission did not vote on decertification at this hearing.

The case will return to POST once the respondent either waives the pending-litigation option or the criminal matter concludes.