AP The state Department of Justice has agreed to look into the case of a Milwaukee man who claims a police officer used excessive force on him, the Milwaukee County district attorney said Monday.

Koua Moua, a 40-year-old machinist, claims Kelly Parker used excessive force and beat him on the street in February. But Milwaukee police Chief Edward Flynn has backed the officer, saying Parker feared for his life and the community's safety and had to use force.

Moua has been charged with resisting an officer and driving while intoxicated.

District Attorney John Chisholm said last week that community concern prompted him to look at the case. But on Monday, he asked the state Department of Justice to investigate because his office has already charged Moua. The police department also is conducting an internal investigation.

State Department of Justice spokesman Kevin St. John said the department would evaluate the matter but couldn't comment on the specifics of the case or offer a timeline.