In a disturbing incident caught on video, new footage has been released by the police in North Carolina, offering a broader perspective on a violent encounter that occurred last month at a Charlotte bus stop.
The incident involves a Black woman being repeatedly punched by an officer while others held her down, sparking outrage and calls for accountability.
Extended Footage Unveils Woman-Law Enforcement Altercation
The incident, which took place on November 13, was initially captured by bystanders and posted on social media, drawing attention to the excessive use of force by law enforcement officers.
The newly released videos show a more comprehensive view of the encounter, revealing that before the officer repeatedly punched the woman, she had struck an officer in the face, prompting a forceful response.
As North Carolina officers approached the woman and a man at a bus stop in front of a Bojangles restaurant, the situation quickly escalated. The officers claimed that the pair smelled of marijuana, and when confronted, the individuals explained they were smoking a legal cannabis compound purchased from a smoke shop.
Tensions rose as officers attempted to detain the man, leading to the woman demanding an explanation.
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Body Cam Footage Reveals North Carolina Officers
The body camera footage depicts a chaotic scene as North Carolina officers struggled with the individuals. The woman can be heard screaming and questioning why she is being touched. In the midst of the struggle, she strikes an officer, setting off a chain of events that culminate in the officer repeatedly punching her while she is held down.
Bystander videos from across a parking lot captured the exchange of punches between the woman and the officer, with onlookers expressing disbelief and condemnation of the use of force against a woman. The incident has sparked public outrage, leading to questions about the appropriateness of the officers’ actions.
After the arrest, the department defended the officer’s actions, stating that he had intentionally struck the woman to gain compliance. The officer, who had responded as backup, delivered several knee strikes and punches to the woman’s thigh, actions deemed consistent with his training, according to Lt. Kevin Pietrus.
The arrested individuals, a man charged with carrying a concealed weapon and a woman charged with assaulting a government official, resisting officers, and marijuana possession, had all charges dropped later. The internal affairs bureau is currently investigating the encounter, and the officer involved has been temporarily reassigned.
Police Chief Johnny Jennings acknowledged the public’s outrage and questioned the necessity of arrests for marijuana use, suggesting a review of department policies.
The incident adds to the ongoing national conversation about police use of force, particularly in cases involving marginalized communities, and highlights the need for transparency, accountability, and reform in law enforcement practices.
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