What were the consequences for Officer Vincent Pistone?

Following an internal affairs investigation, Officer Vincent Pistone was suspended for 40 hours. He was also placed on temporary assignment in investigations, away from active patrol, and required to undergo compliance training. CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings stated that 14 of his 17 strikes to Christina Pierre were not justified.

What happened to the charges against Anthony Lee and Christina Pierre?

All charges against Christina Pierre (assault on a government official, resisting arrest, simple possession of marijuana) and Anthony Lee (carrying a concealed firearm, resisting arrest, simple possession of marijuana) were later dismissed by the Mecklenburg County District Attorney's office.

What actions did CMPD take regarding department policy after the incident?

In response to the controversial arrest, CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings formed a 'Community and Police Collaboration Group' in November 2023. This group began meeting in January 2024 to review department policies, including response to resistance and police-citizen encounters. The meetings are closed to the public, and participants have agreed to keep discussions confidential.

police-brutality · Charlotte, North Carolina

What happened after a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police officer repeatedly struck a woman at a bus stop?

What happened?

Following a widely discussed incident on November 13, 2023, where Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Officer Vincent Pistone repeatedly struck Christina Pierre, all charges against Pierre and Anthony Lee were dismissed. Officer Pistone received a 40-hour suspension and was reassigned, while CMPD formed a confidential group to review police policies.

Discipline or policy action

Last checked: Jun 20, 2026

Sources: WFAE 90.7 - Charlotte's NPR News Source; WRAL; Charlotte Observer; City of Charlotte

Timeline

Nov 13, 2023
The incident involving CMPD officers, Anthony Lee, and Christina Pierre occurred at a bus stop in Charlotte, North Carolina, around 2 p.m.
Nov 18, 2023
The couple's attorney confirmed they were smoking legal THC-A when approached by officers.
Nov 2023
CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings formed a 'Community and Police Collaboration Group' to review department policies.
Dec 12, 2023
CMPD announced the completion of its internal affairs investigation, resulting in Officer Vincent Pistone's 40-hour suspension, temporary reassignment, and required compliance training. Chief Jennings stated 14 of Pistone's 17 strikes were unjustified.
Jan 2024
Meetings for the 'Community and Police Collaboration Group' began, with participants agreeing to keep discussions confidential.
Mar 29, 2024
The Charlotte Observer reported that the specific recommendations from the Community and Police Collaboration Group and their impact on CMPD policy remain unknown due to the confidential nature of their meetings.

Receipts

Code Blue Cam
Police Insider
WFAE 90.7 - Charlotte's NPR News SourceNov 18, 2023
WRALDec 12, 2023
Code Blue Cam
Charlotte ObserverMar 29, 2024
City of CharlotteDec 12, 2023