A disturbing video has surfaced, capturing the moment North Carolina police officers repeatedly punched a woman while restraining her on the ground.
Despite public outcry, officials have defended the officers, asserting that their use of force was necessary. The incident occurred in southwest Charlotte around 2 pm on Monday, leaving onlookers shocked.
Shocking Video Unveils Officer’s Actions
In the video, a group of three or four officers surrounds Bojangles employee Christina Pierre, with one officer seen pummeling her while she is on the ground. Onlookers express their disbelief at the scene unfolding before them.
Altercation Origin and Police Response
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) stated that the altercation began when officers approached Pierre and her colleague, Anthony Nathaniel Lee, who were reportedly smoking marijuana near the Bojangles restaurant where they both worked.
Pierre allegedly hit an officer in the face during the arrest, while Lee was found to be armed with a 9mm handgun.
Use of Force Controversy
CMPD officials assert that Pierre resisted arrest by ‘laying on her hands,’ prompting one officer to strike her thigh and repeatedly instruct her to ‘stop resisting.’ The officer used a trained technique to gain her cooperation, involving kneeing and punching Pierre ten times.
Authorities emphasize the difficult nature of police use of force situations, citing the need for officers to strike large muscle groups for compliance.
Bruising and Legal Consequences
Photographs reveal heavy bruising on the left side of Pierre’s face. She now faces charges of assault on a government official, resisting arrest, and possession of marijuana.
Lee, her colleague, has been charged with carrying a concealed weapon, resisting arrest, and possession of marijuana.
Unreleased Body Camera Footage
CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings notes that unreleased body camera footage provides additional context to the incident. The department is working with the judiciary to permit its publication, responding to calls for transparency.
Community Reaction
Local residents and activists express their concerns over the incident. Calls for the release of the body camera footage grow, with many questioning the use of force in the situation. Bojangles, the fast-food chain where the employees worked, expresses cooperation with any investigation.
Download on Android
Download on iPhone
