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Motorist Beaten By Police Faces Hearing On Drug Charge, Maintains Cops Planted Cocaine

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - A black motorist who was pulled from his car, repeatedly punched in the head by a white police officer and subdued with a stun gun is due back in court later this month on drug charge.

Floyd Dent, who made a brief appearance before Wayne County Circuit Court Judge David Groner on Wednesday, claims Inkster police planted cocaine in his car.

Dent, 57, said he was innocent and trying to protect himself during the January traffic stop, while police counter he'd refused to pull over, resisted arrest and threatened them.

A District Court judge earlier dismissed charges of fleeing police and resisting arrest after viewing police dash-cam video – which went viral online.

Meantime, one Inkster officer involved is on leave while Michigan State Police conduct an investigation.

A not guilty plea was entered on Dent's behalf at an arraignment Wednesday on a charge of possession of  cocaine under 25 grams. His next court hearing is set for April 15.

Dent's supporters planned a rally for Wednesday afternoon outside the Inkster Police Department.

TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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