A video of a California police officer using excessive force on a handcuffed man is going viral. In it, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) cop punches a Black man across the chin and cheekbone while he’s asking abo”t the reason for his arrest. Now, the LAPD has provided a public update on the job status of the officer involvement.
As per media, the incident occurred on Sunday (July 28) during a traffic stop in Los Angeles’ Watts neighborhood. A bystander video shows 2 LAPD officers detaining and cuffing a tall man wearing a white tee, red shorts, and cleaners.
Bystander video indicates the arrest took place before nightfall and near the cops’ parked vehicle. Note that two officers were detaining the man: one, a seemingly white officer, restrained the man, and the other, a Black officer, placed cuffs on him.
Immediately after the detainee yelled, “What did I do though?” the seemingly white-identifying officer cocked his arm back and slammed his closed fist against the detainee’s face, slightly shaking him.
Meanwhile, his partner didn’t say anything loud enough for the cameras to capture. But, the arresting officers looked like they exchanged a sentence or two.
Currently, the detainee continued to ask what he did while the bystanders encouraged him to consider suing the officers. Including, the man and both officers slowly shuffled around while they attempt to place the cuffs on him.
It’s not clear how numerous people witnessed the police-civilian interaction. However, it has been a widespread story in the last 24 hours.
As of Tuesday (July 30), the LAPD says the officer who threw the punch has been “removed from field duties.” It’s not clear if this means he’s on desk duty or leave and how or if the status affects his pay.
Meanwhile, their office is “investigating” the incident “involving the use of force.” However, it’s not clear if the officer who did not hit the detainee will also be investigated. Including details about the detainee and both officers are also limited at this time — and LAPD has not shared otherwise.