The release came after pressure from media outlets and Sheriff Warren Wethington, who argued that the video's disclosure was legally required and in the public's interest.

"It's pretty damning," the sheriff said of the video.

Wethington noted that Smith didn't activate his emergency lights and siren while speeding on Interstate 80 to catch up to Yakish, who had sped past Smith's squad car.

Smith pursued Yakish to an off-ramp near West Liberty and then turned on his lights and siren. Yakish pulled over in a gas station parking lot promptly, got off his bike and put his hands up.

Smith ran at Yakish with his handgun in his right hand and pointed at the man. He used his left hand to strike Yakish in the helmet, knocking him down.

"There was absolutely no reason to point a gun at this kid and then to come up and strike him in the helmet," Wethington said. "That kid was complying."

Wethington said any of his deputies would be fired for such behavior. He praised the Iowa State Patrol for putting Smith on leave and investigating the stop, but its findings remain confidential.

Smith didn't immediately return a cellphone message seeking comment.