Ex-Atlanta police officer found guilty of criminal trespass

A Henry County jury returned a guilty verdict on the charge, but found him not guilty of home invasion and criminal damage in the second degree. The charges resulted from a Nov. 28 incident at a Draba Lane home where his ex-fiancée and her infant daughter were staying with family. Barresi was in full Atlanta Police uniform and kicked in the home's front door, witnesses testified, confronting the family inside with his hand over his holstered gun.

Trial began on Tuesday, and the verdict was read Wednesday afternoon.

Superior Court Judge Brian Amero sentenced Barresi to 12 months with 90 days to serve in jail on the misdemeanor offense. He must also pay a $500 fine and is to have no contact with the victim, his ex-fiancée, and witnesses.

Prior to the decision, the jury heard testimony from Barresi's ex-fiancée and her family, recalling that November morning and the events leading up to the disturbance. Barresi and his ex-fiancée had recently called off their four-year relationship, and his fiancée decided to move out of their shared Jonesboro townhouse. The split was not amicable, and the couple had argued over belongings and finances.

Barresi was reportedly angry over the way she had left, and after returning home from a 16-hour shift on Nov. 28, travelled to Locust Grove just before 7 a.m. to confront her.

He fled the home as victims called 911 for help. Barresi was arrested on a warrant later the same day and posted bond shortly thereafter.

Barresi was a rookie police officer hired by the APD in January of 2015. He was initially placed on administrative leave and resigned from the department in May.

Barresi will serve his sentence in the Henry County Jail.