How someone interprets video is subjective to the viewers point of view.gigag04 wrote:The first part I can understand. Someone getting out of a vehicle during a contact and stating they have a weapon is a HUGE issue. The officer told him to get back in the vehicle, then tried to push him back in, and after those failed he executed a straight arm bar takedown as the subject approached him. I don't think this part will get them in trouble.
The second part of the story, the part w/o video is where he has a very strong case - it just may be tough to prove. If there was in fact malicious conduct at the station I hope it is prosecuted. I'll be watching this one.
I did not hear any officer tell Mr Statin to remain in the vehicle. Nor did I hear any
officer say "keep your hands where we can see them". When Mr Statin exited the vehicle
there was NO resistance, he had his back to the officer, as the officer grabbed Mr Statin's
arms, Mr Statin responded "I have a CHL" (paraphrased), the officer seized control of the weapon,
the officer already had Mr Statin's arms under control and behind Mr Statin's back. THEN the officer
decided to apply an arm bar, slam Mr Statin into the car in the next space and put Mr Statin on the ground.
I found it funny (heavy sarcasim) the officer then thought it necessary to say "quit resisting". Give me a break.
Had the officer placed cuffs on Mr Statin immediately after finding the weapon I probably would not be
too concerned. However, the use and abuse of unnecessary force to "take down" a person who is not
physically resisting is unacceptable behavior, in my opinion.
Had Mr Statin shoved the officer, gone into a fighting stance, tried to run, etc etc then I would probably
be supporting the officer. That's not what the video shows happened. In my opinion. As I stated previously,
interpreting the video is really in the eye of the beholder.
I will be interested to see what a jury thinks.