One of the charges against a Nassau police officer accused of brutality has been dismissed.

Officer Vincent LoGiudice is charged with beating Kyle Howell following a traffic stop.

Judge Patricia Harrington dropped one of the three assault charges against LoGiudice, saying there wasn't enough evidence to prove the officer hit Howell with a weapon.

LoGiudice's partner testified today in his defense. Officer Basil Gomez testified that Howell was resisting arrest and fighting with officers. Gomez said he and LoGiudice pulled over Howell in New Castle for a cracked windshield. According to Gomez, the officer noticed what looked like drugs in the car. Gomez said Howell then lunged across the vehicle and reached his hand under the passenger seat. At that point, Gomez jumped on top of Howell and LoGiudice tried to subdue him, according to Gomez.

Prosecutors allege that LoGiudice punched or hit Howell 18 times and severely injured him. They say those violent actions overstepped the bounds of police behavior.

It's unclear if LoGiudice will take the stand in his own defense. Gomez will continue his testimony Monday.